Getting Started with LaTeX
LaTeX is a high-quality typesetting system, widely used for technical and scientific documentation. Unlike word processors like Microsoft Word or Google Docs, LaTeX focuses on content rather than appearance, making it ideal for structured documents such as research papers, theses, and books.
What is LaTeX?
LaTeX is a document preparation system based on TeX. It allows authors to define content using plain text markup, which is then compiled into beautifully formatted documents (PDF, DVI, etc.). It is particularly popular in academia, especially for mathematics, physics, and computer science.
Why use LaTeX vs Word/Google Docs?
Unlike Word or Google Docs, which rely on manual formatting, LaTeX separates content from style. This makes it easier to maintain consistency across long or complex documents. Key advantages include:
First Document Structure
A basic LaTeX document starts with a class declaration, followed by a preamble (packages, settings), then the main document body. Here is the minimal structure: