Convert MS Word documents into LaTeX

[jemma]

I realize this is most likely an extremely basic question but I can't seem to find the answer...
I am wondering if it's possible to convert MS Word documents (with some MathType equations) into LaTeX (and then into pdf files)? I have never used LaTex before and would appreciate some basic guidance as to (a)is this possible, (b)what software I need to download and (c)what I actually need to do!

 

[AlephZero]

Try here: http://www.tug.org/utilities/texconv/pctotex.html

I don't have first hand experience of them, but the TeX User Group (TUG) is as good a place to start looking as any.

Obviously you need to install a TeX system on your PC. I would recommend http://miktex.org/ (which is free).

You will need to learn the basics of how to use LaTeX. There are plenty of tutorials on the web, of varying quality. Tutorials produced by universities for their students are usually good. Or read "The not so short introduction to LaTeX2e" (google the title, or look for a file called lshort.pdf).

 

[bobm]

You'll need to convert the MathType equations to LaTeX first. You can do that with the Toggle TeX command, but you'll get more consistent results by using the Convert Equations command. Both of these commands are on the MathType tab in Word. Look in MathType Help for instructions on using these commands. Post follow-up questions here if you'd like.

 

[DrDu]

If you finally want to create pdf files, why don't you do that directly from word?

 

[alphy]

I can understand your need to convert MS Word documents into LaTeX for your research work. The good news is that it is indeed possible to convert Word documents into LaTeX, including equations created using MathType.

To do this, you will need to use a conversion tool or software. There are several options available, such as Pandoc, TeX4ht, and Word2TeX. These tools can convert Word documents into LaTeX code, which can then be compiled into a PDF file.

Before using any of these tools, it is important to familiarize yourself with the basics of LaTeX, such as its syntax and structure. You may also need to make some adjustments to the converted code to ensure it is formatted correctly and includes all necessary packages.

In terms of software, you will need to have a LaTeX distribution installed on your computer. This includes a LaTeX compiler, such as MiKTeX or TeX Live, and an editor, such as TeXworks or TeXstudio. These can be downloaded for free from their respective websites.

Once you have the necessary software and have familiarized yourself with LaTeX, you can follow the specific instructions provided by the conversion tool you choose to convert your Word document into LaTeX. This may involve using command lines or using a graphical user interface.

In summary, converting MS Word documents into LaTeX is possible and can be done with the help of conversion tools and a LaTeX distribution. However, it is important to have a basic understanding of LaTeX in order to successfully convert your documents. I hope this guidance helps you in your conversion process. Good luck!