In some work I am currently writing there is a point at which I have to put values into a few different formulae. I am operating over a finite field so I aim to use values in this field.
As an example of this over the field $\mathbb{F}_{17}$, $$ m=x_1+x_2+x_3=5+7+11=23=6 $$
My concern relates to the use of equality. Is my current use of notation appropriate, or would I be better off using congruence?
This alternative would lead to $$ m \equiv x_1+x_2+x_3 \equiv 5+7+11 \equiv 23 \equiv 6 \pmod{17} $$
Any advice is greatly appreciated.