(UPDATED) LaTeX Tutorial 1 - Creating a LaTeX Document

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to help you get started with LaTeX, a powerful typesetting system commonly used for producing scientific and mathematical documents. You'll learn how to create a LaTeX document using two popular methods: Overleaf (an online platform) and TexMaker (an offline software).

Step 1: Why Use LaTeX

• LaTeX is ideal for documents that require complex formatting, such as academic papers, theses, and research articles.
• It handles references, citations, and bibliographies with ease, making your writing more professional.
• LaTeX is especially beneficial for documents that include mathematical equations, as it provides precise control over formatting.

Step 2: Choosing Your Platform

You can use LaTeX in two ways:

1. Overleaf (Online):

   • Go to Overleaf.
   • Create an account or log in to start a new project.

2. TexMaker (Offline):

   • Download TexMaker from TexMaker's website.
   • Important: Before installing TexMaker, ensure you install MacTeX (for Mac users) or MikTeX (for Windows users) to avoid issues.

Step 3: Your First Line of Code

• Open your chosen platform (Overleaf or TexMaker).
• Start with a basic document structure:

\documentclass{article}
\begin{document}
Hello, LaTeX!
\end{document}

• This code sets up a simple document that states "Hello, LaTeX!"

Step 4: Understanding Paired Commands

• LaTeX uses paired commands for formatting, such as \textbf{} for bold text and \textit{} for italic text.
• Example:

\textbf{This text is bold.}
\textit{This text is italic.}

Step 5: Typesetting LaTeX

• Learn how to pronounce LaTeX: "Lah-tech" or "Lay-tech".
• Remember that LaTeX is case-sensitive; ensure you type commands correctly.

Step 6: Using TexMaker

• After installing TexMaker and the appropriate TeX distribution, open TexMaker.
• Create a new document and start typing your LaTeX code.
• Use the built-in features like syntax highlighting and auto-completion for ease.

Step 7: Understanding Soft and Hard Returns

• Soft Returns: Use Shift + Enter to create a new line without starting a new paragraph.
• Hard Returns: Just pressing Enter starts a new paragraph and adds extra vertical space.

Step 8: Working with Math Mode

• Enter math mode by using the $ symbol for inline math or \[ \] for display math.
• Example:

This is inline math: $E=mc^2$.

• For display math:

\[
E=mc^2
\]

Step 9: Saving Your Files

• In TexMaker, save your document using File > Save or the shortcut Ctrl + S.
• In Overleaf, your work is automatically saved, but remember to download your .tex file if needed.

Conclusion

Congratulations on starting your LaTeX journey! You now know how to set up your document, use basic commands, and format text and math. Consider exploring more advanced topics like bibliographies and custom packages to enhance your LaTeX skills. Happy coding!