Where can I find beginner resources for learning LaTEX?

[Falgun]

Okay so I find myself with quite a bit of time on my hands and I have always been a messy note taker so I decided to learn LaTEX just for the heck of it. I searched for previous threads but they were generally confusing. I have very minimum programming experience. So I would really appreciate it if someone could start me on my journey by telling me about the standard software for LaTEX on a Windows laptop. Also kindly recommend some tutorials/books,etc.

 

[plum356]

https://www.overleaf.com/learn
you can also use their online editor instead of downloading a software.

 

[DrClaude]

The Not So Short Introduction to LaTeX 2e.

To install LaTeX on Windows, see https://www.latex-project.org/get/

 

[haushofer]

My problem with Latex is that if I have an error and look for similar error-reports on forums like stackexchange, the answers tend to be for Linux-like geeks. Something rather trivial can become a 5 hours long frustration, and after the first advice I already feel lost and retarded. Same goes for R, btw.

But then you see the fonts and crappy usability of Windows Equation Editor, and you realize that's even worse.

And to answer your question: did you search on your native language? In my own native language (Dutch) there are some pretty good introductions.

 

[DrClaude]

My problem with Latex is that if I have an error and look for similar error-reports on forums like stackexchange, the answers tend to be for Linux-like geeks.

Then post in https://www.physicsforums.com/forums/matlab-maple-mathematica-latex.189/

 

[Falgun]

My problem with Latex is that if I have an error and look for similar error-reports on forums like stackexchange, the answers tend to be for Linux-like geeks. Something rather trivial can become a 5 hours long frustration, and after the first advice I already feel lost and retarded. Same goes for R, btw.

But then you see the fonts and crappy usability of Windows Equation Editor, and you realize that's even worse.

And to answer your question: did you search on your native language? In my own native language (Dutch) there are some pretty good introductions.

I'm pretty comfortable in English. And yes I did run a Google search. Most people recommended this book called "More math into LaTeX" by Gratzer and others recommended "The not so short introduction to LaTeX 2e".

 

[Mayhem]

Type out a large proof that also requires graphical representations. Even if you have to copy it off something else, it gives you plenty of experience in formatting and syntax.

 

[Mark44]

Also kindly recommend some tutorials/books,etc.

When you're typing a post here at PF, there is a link to our tutorial in the lower left corner -- LaTeX Guide. If you're completely new to LaTeX, this is a good place to start.

 

[haushofer]

Then post in https://www.physicsforums.com/forums/matlab-maple-mathematica-latex.189/

Yes. I certainly will do so. Perhaps putting a remark in the OP: "please treat me like I'm an idiot"

 

[DrClaude]

Yes. I certainly will do so. Perhaps putting a remark in the OP: "please treat me like I'm an idiot"

You can tag me. I'll be gentle!

 

[haushofer]

You can tag me. I'll be gentle!

Be careful. If you happen to be that one dude who can explain LaTeX solutions in normal language, there is a chance I'll ask you to marry me. My wife will not like that (and neither will my kids).

But all sillyness on a stick (as we put it in Holland), I have a hard time installing packages, so I'll probably make use of your gesture in the near future.

 

[Gordianus]

I'd suggest going veeeeery slowly. Don't attempt an Opera Magna. I don't feel comfortable with LATEX so I go in small steps.