1. The problem is to understand and explain how to format a mathematical expression correctly. 2. Formatting expressions in math usually involves writing them clearly using mathematical notation, such as fractions, exponents, and symbols. 3. For example, to write the expression "two plus three times four," you format it as $2 + 3 \times 4$. 4. Note the use of the multiplication symbol $\times$ instead of the letter "x" to avoid confusion with the variable x. 5. Use parentheses to clarify order of operations if needed, e.g., $ (2 + 3) \times 4 $ changes the evaluation. 6. So, formatting expressions properly helps in understanding and communicating math clearly.