Texmaker vs. LaTex ?

In the field of mathematics most documents are typed up using some sort of LaTex system.  The advantages of this system versus using  Microsoft Word is that there are many more math symbols, it displays equations/formulas in a more appealing way, and overall makes it easier to follow the conventions of writing theorems, proofs, and lemmas. 

The version of LaTex that I’m reviewing is called Texmaker. 

Process of downloading software

Texmaker is a cross-platform LaTex editor for Linux, Macosx and Windows systems that consists of many of the same tools that are needed to form a document with LaTex.  One of the most convenient things about Texmaker is that it is easy to access/download.    A person simply has to search Texmaker in the Google toolbar and click on the first hit or a person may access the site directly at

http://www.xm1math.net/texmaker/

This site not only offers free downloadable versions of Texmaker, but also keeps their programs up to date!  Thus, all a person needs to do is check the same site/location for an updated version of Texmaker if s/he feels theirs is out of date.  As of now the latest version is version 3.2.2, which was updated January 12, 2012.

Visuals

Besides being free and easy to download Texmaker also makes writing /editing code easy.  It does this by ensuring that the window the code is displayed on or typed into is large enough to see most of the page, but still small enough so that it doesn’t take up the entire computer screen (i.e. much like a Word document).  Also any errors with the code are highlighted in about a 3-4’’ margin at the bottom of the page.  It is here that the error message displays the type of error and the location of the error within the code.  Which leads to another nice property of Texmaker, lines of code are numbered making it easier to locate and edit your document. 

Texmaker also includes Unicode support, spell checking, auto-completion, code folding and a built-in pdf viewer with synctex support and continuous view mode.

Lastly, I would like to go over what I consider to be the biggest “plus” associated with Texmaker.  This would be the tool bar located on the left side of the document.  This toolbar runs vertically down the page and displays a wide array of various math symbols (i.e. infinity, summation signs, various arrows, Greek symbols, etc.).  Thus, instead of a person having to memorize or constantly look up the code for these various math symbols, all they need to do is go over to the tool bar and search for the image of the symbol s/he wants.  These symbols are organized by different types of arrows, proving symbols, Greek letters, and an assortment of algebraic symbols such as the number π = 3.14.  Then a simple click of the mouse allows the program to automatically insert the code for the user.  Pretty sweet I would say!

Compare/Contrast usage

Essentially Texmaker and any LaTex system use the same code and conventions for setting up the code, only Texmaker makes it easier for the beginner coder by providing a  “cheat sheet” tool bar, as mentioned above, that allows a beginner to spend less time searching the internet for code and more time setting up the document.  Thus, Texmaker is a great way to go for beginning LaTexers!

Conclusions

Overall, I feel that Texmaker is very easy to use and is compatible with many different LaTex programs and computer systems.  It is very useful for beginners, especially those who need to learn the program fast.  For the experienced LaTexer, the extra tool bar on the side my seem unnecessary, but a person can change the viewing style so that the tool bar is hidden.  Hence, making the program appealing to both experienced and inexperienced LaTexers.