GAP
GAP: A specialized, open-source math system for computational group theory and discrete algebra. Ranked #64 of 68 in Math Solver Apps by our editors (5.0/10); pricing: Free plan; best for researchers focused on computational group theory.
At a glance
- Editor score5.0 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forResearchers focused on computational group theory
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Facts checked22 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Strong algorithms for groups, semigroups, algebras, and representations
- Open-source system available on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Extensible packages and mathematical data libraries support research work
Where it doesn't
- Its programming-oriented workflow is not a conventional photo-based solver
- Specialized subject coverage may not fit general-purpose math solving
- Step-by-step explanations are not a central feature
Our verdict on GAP
GAP is a free, open-source software system for computational discrete abstract algebra, with particular emphasis on computational group theory. It combines the GAP programming language with a library of algebraic algorithms and mathematical data libraries. Researchers and teachers can use it for work involving groups, representations, rings, vector spaces, algebras, semigroups, and combinatorial structures. It runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and is intended for mathematical research, teaching, and programming on local computers.
The strongest reason to choose GAP is its subject depth. Its capabilities cover computational group theory alongside algorithms for semigroups and algebras, representation-theory computations, support for rings and vector spaces, and combinatorial-structure computation. This gives researchers a focused environment for discrete algebra rather than a general calculator or a conventional photo-based math solver. The programming language also makes the system suitable for users who want to define and run computational workflows instead of only entering individual problems.
GAP’s open-source model keeps the system available without a paid plan, while its extensible package system allows functionality to grow through independently developed packages. That combination suits research and teaching contexts where specialized algorithms, reusable mathematical data, and local execution matter. It is less appropriate for users seeking broad everyday math coverage, guided step-by-step explanations, or a simple interface centered on solving photographed problems. Choose GAP for computational group theory and related algebraic research; choose another type of math solver for general problem solving and explanation-led learning.
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GAP pricing
GAP fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Photo input | Not verified |
| Handwriting input | Not verified |
| Step-by-step explanations | Not verified |
| Subject coverage | Broad |
| Platform coverage | Multiplatform |
| Offline mode | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | gap-system.org |
| Facts checked | 22 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to GAP
- Maple CalculatorA broad mobile solver with camera and handwriting input, plus offline graphing.9.4
- SymbolabA broad math study tool pairing worked solutions with practice, graphing and photo input.9.2
- GeoGebraA broad, free mathematics toolkit with adaptive practice, classroom tools, and offline apps.9.1
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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