Authors in particular fields of study—namely the STEM disciplines—may prefer to use the code-based typesetting program LaTeX rather than Microsoft Word to create a textbook manuscript. LaTeX can be a powerful tool for typesetting equations, mathematical principles, or other features that may require special formatting.
While the learning curve for using a new program can be steep, if you have a working knowledge of code-based languages, LaTeX provides you complete control and endless flexibility over the layout of your manuscript. This can be especially useful for typesetting content that requires a specific format for the material to be accurate.
We allow authors to use LaTeX with certain specifications:
- Your project editor may request that you play a more integral role in making changes suggested by the copyeditor and placing imagery.
- You and your project editor should communicate consistently throughout the content creation process to ensure your manuscript file is compatible with Cognella branding and printing specifications.
- This guide provides you with general compatibility guidelines that will help you compose your manuscript using LaTeX. Please note, it is not intended as a tutorial for the program.
It’s also important to keep in mind that Cognella will use the PDF output exactly as you provide it and we won’t be able to make changes to the file on your behalf, apart from adding publication front matter (the title and copyright pages).