What is LaTeX?

LaTeX is a document preparation system used for high-quality typesetting, particularly for mathematical and scientific documents. Unlike WYSIWYG editors, LaTeX relies on markup commands to structure content, making it ideal for research papers, books, and technical reports. It is widely used in academia due to its precise formatting of equations, citations, and tables.

How do you write equations in LaTeX?

In LaTeX, equations are written using math mode, which can be entered using $...$ for inline math:

$E = mc^2$

or \[ ... \] for display math:

\[
E = mc^2
\]

Once in math mode, most "normal" equations can be written directly, for example f(x) = y+1 is valid LaTeX. For more complex equations, symbols (e.g. \alpha) and structures (e.g \frac{a}{b}) are specified by commands prefixed with \.

How to convert an equation into LaTeX?

To convert an equation into LaTeX:

• Manually: Type the equation using LaTeX syntax, e.g., x^2 + y^2 = z^2.
• Microsoft Word: Select the equation in your document, then use the "Convert" menu and click "Professional."
• Online Tools: Use tools like Mathpix or Detexify to generate LaTeX code.

What's the difference between display and inline style in LaTeX?

Inline Math Mode ($...$): Used within text, and appears smaller and aligned with text, e.g.:

The equation $a^2 + b^2 = c^2$ is the Pythagorean theorem.

Display Math Mode (\[ ... \]): Used for standalone equations. Equations appear centered and more prominent. More vertical space is allowed for taller symbols, like integrals and summations.

How to write a fraction in LaTeX?

Use the \frac command:

\frac{numerator}{denominator}

For example, \frac{1}{2} + \frac{2}{3} = \frac{7}{6}.

How to add spaces in equation in LaTeX?

Use the following commands in math mode:

• \,: Small (thin) space
• \:: Medium space
• \;: Large (thick) space

How to write text in math mode in LaTeX?

By default, math mode only supports symbols, but you can include text using:

• \text{} (requires amsmath package): E = mc^2 \text{ where } E \text{ is energy}
• \mathrm{} for upright text: \mathrm{sin} \, x

How to draw diagrams with LaTeX?

Vexlio is an online application that allows you to draw diagrams with LaTeX equations, automatic snapping, and more. For plots and other figure types, you can also use the TikZ and pgfplots packages.