LaTeX (pronounced Lay-Tek or La-Tek) is typesetting software that allows you a great deal of control over how your documents are formatted. LaTeX is a must for anyone whose work involves formal symbolism, but is still useful for anyone who is particular about the way their documents look. If you're fed up with Word, then it might be time to switch to LaTeX. Unlike simple text editors or word processors, LaTeX has a bit of learning curve, but this is highly manageable, and the payout is worth the time and effort. Best of all, it's free, so even philosophers can afford it. Using LaTeX looks like this:
If you're interested in learning how to use LaTeX, I recommend the following:
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1. Go to overleaf.com.
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- This is an editor and compiler that happens entirely in the browser. You won't need to deal with Tex distributions or anything like that. The site also features all kinds of tutorials. This is a good place to get your feet wet.
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2. Download MikTex for Windows or MacTex for macOS (If you run linux I doubt you need my help).
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- These will set you up to do it outside of your browser, and subsequently give you greater control over what you're doing. You also won't need an internet connection to work.
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3. Start tinkering and exploring!
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- There is no dearth of online resources to help you with whatever problems you might have, so get after it! You may find the following useful:
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- DeTexify - Can't search the name of that weird symbol because you don't know what it's called? Draw it! DeTexify will tell you what it's called, and what package you need!
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- LaTeX for Logicians - General resources for those using LaTex for logic.
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