What is it? LaTeX (Lah-tech or Lay-tech) is a high-quality open-source typesetting system including features designed for producing technical and scientific documentation. LaTeX is available under the terms of the LaTeX Project Public License (LPPL). TeX Live, MacTeX, and MiKTeX are common distributions for Linux, Mac OS and Windows users. The distributions are run using editors such as TeXShop for Mac users and TeXstudio for Windows users.

What can I use it for? LaTeX is an open-source typesetting system most often used for medium-to-large technical or scientific documents but can be used for almost any form of publishing. Specific licensing details can be found here.

Where can I run it? You can install LaTeX on any Linux, Mac OS, or Windows computer. TeXstudio for Windows and TeXShop for Mac OS are used to run the editors. The LaTeX Project has more information here.

How can I learn it? There are LaTeX courses available on the LinkedIn Learning website, which is available for UT students, faculty, and staff at no additional charge. The LaTeX Project provides core documentation and references external links and books as user guides.

Where can I get support? OIT offers Minimal Support to University of Tennessee, Knoxville-area students, faculty, and staff for LaTeX using specifically the TeXstudio and TeXShop editors. You can request assistance by calling the OIT HelpDesk at 865-974-9900.

Updated 05/14/2024