The less-than sign is a mathematical symbol that denotes an inequality between two values. The widely adopted form of two equal-length strokes connecting in an acute angle at the left, <, has been found in documents dated as far back as the 1560s. In mathematical writing, the less-than sign is typically placed between two values being compared and signifies that the first number is less than the second number. Examples of typical usage include 1⁄2 < 1 and −2 < 0.
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The best way to remember the less than symbol is the “Alligator Method“. While comparing two values, think of the alligator method. It is known that the alligator’s mouth always points to the largest value, the reason being it can eat as much as possible. The alligator’s mouth always opens to the right to represent the less than inequality. We can also use the alligator method to use greater than a symbol. The alligator mouth points to the left to define the greater than symbol.
