LaTeX error · Commands, braces and arguments

Extra }, or forgotten $.

The error in the log

This is how the message appears in the .log file (and in the compile output). The line starting with l. is the line number where TeX noticed the problem; the real mistake is there or just before it.

! Extra }, or forgotten $.
<recently read> \egroup 
                        
l.5 The value \textbf{$x = 3}
                             $ is important.

Why it happens

• An extra closing brace, often left behind after deleting a command such as \textbf{.
• Braces and dollars interleaved: \textbf{$x}$ or ${x$}.
• A literal brace meant as text, written } instead of \}.

How to fix it

Make the brace and the math mode nest properly: either put the whole formula inside the argument (\textbf{$x = 3$}) or keep the command inside math ($\mathbf{x} = 3$). If the brace is simply extra, delete it.

Broken: reproduces the error

\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

The value \textbf{$x = 3}$ is important.

\end{document}

Fixed: compiles cleanly

\documentclass{article}

\begin{document}

The value \textbf{$x = 3$} is important.

\end{document}

Related errors

• Missing } inserted – A brace group was still open when math mode or a table cell ended.
• Too many }'s – A closing brace at the outer level of the document that closes nothing.
• Missing $ inserted – A math-only symbol (_, ^, \alpha) was used in text, or math mode was left early.
• All LaTeX errors and warnings – The full list, grouped by cause

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Extra } and Too many }'s?

Extra }, or forgotten $ is raised inside a paragraph or math when a } closes nothing in the current mode. Too many }'s is the same mistake at the outer level of the document, between paragraphs.

How do I print a curly brace?

Write \{ and \} in text and math. In math, \left\{ gives a large brace, as in a cases definition.

The line in the log looks fine. Where is the extra brace?

TeX reports the brace where it noticed the imbalance. Check the lines just before it, and any macro you defined with \newcommand that is used on that line.