Proper Use of LaTeX: Common Typographical Errors

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  • Thread starter DrClaude
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In summary,There are some things that always scorch my eyes, like improper italics [##sin(x)##] or incorrect typography of units [##128kg##].I wonder those of you who are sticklers for typography have other pet peeves of the kind.Personally, I'm mostly concerned with actual LaTeX documents. I'm spending lots of time right now correcting lab reports and some things keep cropping up.What I do care about is when it is used with improper spacing so that it is not clear at all what is there...$$\int x dx$$Note that the LaTeX code has the required space, but a space
  • #36
For units I suggest the use of siunitx package. It is powerful and complete, sticks with some convention(s). From it I learned that when using a range such as "from 9 to 15 K" is incorrect. The correct way to write it is by using the unit on both values.
 
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  • #37
DrClaude said:
I recommend the package siunitx, which makes it easy to get the units right without much effort.
fluidistic said:
For units I suggest the use of siunitx package.
I can also endorse this package.
 
  • #38
Orodruin said:
Typesetting units in math mode: Units are not mathematical symbols. Do not typeset them as such. In running text, do not even enter math mode if you are just writing a number. End math mode after the number if it is part of an equation: ##\ell=2.32## cm.

Are you sure about this? You certainly need math mode if the unit contains fractions or exponents. Why not consistently use it? Also, I think you should never use math mode for only part of an equation, even if it doesn't make a visible difference in this case.

Actually, while it might not make a visible difference in a document, it certainly does in this forum, as the fonts are different.
##\ell=2.32## cm is certainly worse than ##\ell=2.32~\mbox{cm}##.
 
  • #39
I am not saying you should not include the unit in math mode. I am saying you should not typeset it in standard math mode, but use some way of typesetting it in your regular font. There are several ways of doing this that produce acceptable results.

greypilgrim said:
it certainly does in this forum, as the fonts are different.
This thread is not about the forum, but about a typical LaTeX document, as stated by OP.
DrClaude said:
I'm mostly concerned with actual LaTeX documents.
I also disagree with ##\ell = 2.32## cm being worse in forum form than ##\ell = 2.32~{\rm cm}##, but that is more a matter of taste.
 
  • #40
Orodruin said:
I am not saying you should not include the unit in math mode.

Actually you did say (and do) just that:
Orodruin said:
In running text, do not even enter math mode if you are just writing a number. End math mode after the number if it is part of an equation: ##\ell = 2.32## cm.

But alright, in the end it only matters how it looks in the processed document.
 
  • #41
robphy said:
I also prefer non-italicized subscripts for words:
Code:
\VEC F_{\scriptsize{\mbox{net on dog}}} 
\VEC F_{net\ on\ dog}

[itex]\VEC F_{\scriptsize{\mbox{net on dog}}} [/itex]
vs
[itex]\VEC F_{net\ on\ dog} [/itex]
(Maybe I should make a macro for that.)
I usually typeset subscripts like these this way:
Code:
\vec F_\text{net on dog}
[itex]\vec F_\text{net on dog}[/itex]
 
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  • #43
Greg Bernhardt said:
@DrClaude how did this document end up, any chance to share it with PF?
Not finished yet. I have a bunch of reports to correct, so (1) priorities, (2) I'm collecting more examples of common mistakes :smile:
 
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  • #44
Another one, while not ##\LaTeX## per se, is the use of computer notation for powers of ten:
$$
V_0 = 1e-5
$$
instead of
$$
V_0 = 1\times 10^{-5}
$$
or
$$
V_0 = 10^{-5}
$$

I've also seen the inverse in code, something like
C:
hbar = 1.0545718 * pow (10., -34);
:eek:
 
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  • #45
Adding to the list: not entering accented characters properly.

This doesn't appear to be a problem with MathJax, but in regular ##\LaTeX##, a word such as Schrödinger entered as is will render as
##\text{Schrdinger}##.

One has to use, e.g., \"o or to use the inputenc package to allow for extended ASCII characters:
Code:
\usepackage[utf8]{inputenc}
 
  • #46
<h2>1. What is LaTeX and why is it important for scientific writing?</h2><p>LaTeX is a typesetting system used for creating professional and high-quality documents, particularly in the fields of mathematics, science, and engineering. It is important for scientific writing because it allows for precise and consistent formatting of equations, symbols, and figures, making it easier for readers to understand and reproduce the results.</p><h2>2. What are some common typographical errors to watch out for when using LaTeX?</h2><p>Some common typographical errors in LaTeX include missing or incorrect punctuation, using the wrong font style or size, and improper placement of mathematical symbols. It is important to proofread and check for these errors before finalizing a document.</p><h2>3. How can I ensure proper use of LaTeX in my documents?</h2><p>To ensure proper use of LaTeX, it is important to familiarize yourself with the basic syntax and commands, use templates or style files provided by journals or publishers, and consult online resources or reference guides for specific formatting guidelines.</p><h2>4. Can I use LaTeX for all types of scientific documents?</h2><p>Yes, LaTeX can be used for a variety of scientific documents such as research papers, presentations, posters, and even thesis or dissertation manuscripts. It is a versatile tool that can handle complex equations and graphics, making it suitable for most scientific writing needs.</p><h2>5. Are there any alternatives to using LaTeX for scientific writing?</h2><p>Yes, there are alternatives to using LaTeX for scientific writing, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs. However, these programs may not have the same level of precision and flexibility as LaTeX when it comes to formatting mathematical equations and symbols. It ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the writer.</p>

1. What is LaTeX and why is it important for scientific writing?

LaTeX is a typesetting system used for creating professional and high-quality documents, particularly in the fields of mathematics, science, and engineering. It is important for scientific writing because it allows for precise and consistent formatting of equations, symbols, and figures, making it easier for readers to understand and reproduce the results.

2. What are some common typographical errors to watch out for when using LaTeX?

Some common typographical errors in LaTeX include missing or incorrect punctuation, using the wrong font style or size, and improper placement of mathematical symbols. It is important to proofread and check for these errors before finalizing a document.

3. How can I ensure proper use of LaTeX in my documents?

To ensure proper use of LaTeX, it is important to familiarize yourself with the basic syntax and commands, use templates or style files provided by journals or publishers, and consult online resources or reference guides for specific formatting guidelines.

4. Can I use LaTeX for all types of scientific documents?

Yes, LaTeX can be used for a variety of scientific documents such as research papers, presentations, posters, and even thesis or dissertation manuscripts. It is a versatile tool that can handle complex equations and graphics, making it suitable for most scientific writing needs.

5. Are there any alternatives to using LaTeX for scientific writing?

Yes, there are alternatives to using LaTeX for scientific writing, such as Microsoft Word or Google Docs. However, these programs may not have the same level of precision and flexibility as LaTeX when it comes to formatting mathematical equations and symbols. It ultimately depends on the specific needs and preferences of the writer.

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