LaTex-Another Word Processing Option
Occasionally when I write about word processors someone will ask about using LaTeX (that’s LaTeX, not latex . . . totally different things). LaTex is the hardcore version of Word Processing. I most often find it used by those in the sciences as it is much easier to type equations and formulas in LaTex. (Technically speaking LaTex is not a program but a mark-up language-like HTML, there are many programs which enable you to work in LaTex.)
Unfortunately LaTeX is rather complicated for the uninitiated. Fortunately though Arjun Muralidharan at The Productive Student has written a post about how he uses LaTeX as a Word Processor. As Arjun points out there are many advantages to using something like LaTeX, where content is separate from form, allowing you to concentrate on the text, leaving the format for an afterthought. Equally as important, is the way that LaTeX allows easy import of bibliographic data.
So, if you are interested in this type of word processing check out Arjun’s point, and perhaps this free users manual.
June 19th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
I’ve been using LaTeX more and more in an academic setting. Some of my professors are actually requiring some assignments to be done in LaTeX. Separating form from content is definitely a plus in some situations.
One post that I wrote a while back suggested that students use LaTeX to take notes in math class. This way they have index-able digital copies of their notes. Check it out: LaTeX: Take Notes in Your Math Class… On Your Laptop
June 26th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
There’s also Lyx (http://www.lyx.org/), which is LaTeX with a graphical user interface. For purists, that of course defeats the purpose, but it might be helpful for less tech-minded people!
July 27th, 2008 at 9:36 am
Yes Lyx is a better alternative for students in the humanities or social sciences. It functions pretty much like a WYSIWYG, like any word processor program, but it has the advantage of producing a LaTeX interface output that is device independent and of far better publishing quality than any other word processor. So no need to learn all the TeX codes for writing. It can also be used with BibTeX, which is also far better than using the new reference option in e.g. Office 2007 since it allows to get the exact references through the internet (minimum reference typing, maximum effect outputing).
Frank.
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