LaTeX and Overleaf for Scientific Writing

LaTeX and Overleaf for Scientific Writing#

What is LaTeX?#

LaTeX (pronounced “Lay-tech” or “Lah-tech”) is a typesetting system that includes features designed for the production of technical and scientific documentation.

Key Features of LaTeX#

  • Mathematical Typesetting: LaTeX is renowned for its ability to beautifully typeset complex mathematical equations.

  • References and Citations: It automates the process of managing references and citations.

  • Cross-referencing: Easily reference figures, tables, and sections within the document.

  • Customizability: Offers extensive customization options for document formatting.

What is Overleaf?#

Overleaf is an online collaborative LaTeX editor that integrates a rich set of features to facilitate the writing and editing of LaTeX documents. It provides a user-friendly interface for editing LaTeX, real-time collaboration, and a range of templates to get you started.

Key Features of Overleaf#

  • Real-time Collaboration: Multiple authors can work on a document simultaneously, seeing each other’s changes in real-time.

  • Templates: Overleaf offers a vast library of templates for different types of documents, including academic papers, theses, and presentations.

  • Version Control: Track changes and revert to previous versions of the document.

  • Integrated Preview: View a real-time preview of your document as you write.

  • Bibliography Management: Easily manage references with built-in support for BibTeX and other bibliographic tools.

  • Access Anywhere: Since Overleaf is a web-based platform, you can access your documents from any device with an internet connection.

Getting Started with LaTeX on Overleaf#

Creating a New Document#

  1. Sign Up: Create an account on Overleaf.

  2. New Project: Click on “New Project” and choose a blank document or a template.

  3. Edit: Start editing your document using the LaTeX syntax in the editor on the left side of the screen.

Managing references#

To manage references in LaTeX, you typically use a .bib file with BibTeX entries:

  1. Create a .bib file: In your Overleaf project, create a new file with a .bib extension.

  2. Add References: Add your references in BibTeX format. An example .bib entry looks like:

@article{example2024, author = {Jose da Silva}, title = {An Example Article}, journal = {Journal of Examples}, year = {2024}, volume = {1}, number = {1}, pages = {1-10}, }

  1. Cite References: Use the \cite{} command to cite references in your document. Example: According to \cite{example2024}, this is an example of a citation.

Useful Overleaf templates#

Collaboration on Overleaf#

To collaborate on a document in Overleaf:

  1. Share Link: Click on the “Share” button in the top right corner and share the link with collaborators.

  2. Collaborate: Collaborators can edit the document simultaneously, and changes are synced in real-time.

  3. Commenting: Use the commenting feature to leave feedback or discuss specific parts of the document.

Exporting and Downloading#

To export or download your document from Overleaf:

  1. Download PDF: Click on the “Download” button to download a PDF version of your document.

  2. Export Source: You can also export the source files in .zip format for offline editing.

Best Practices#

  • Use Templates: Start with a template to save time and ensure proper formatting.

  • Version Control: Use the version history feature to track changes and revert to previous versions.

  • Organize Files: Keep your project organized with folders for images, bibliography, and other resources.

Resources:#

Overleaf Documentation LaTeX Project

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