LaTeX Editor

Introduction:

LaTeX is a plain-text typesetting system that represents even the most intricate mathematics through compact command syntax, letting authors embed formulas inside research papers, technical documentation, and lecture material while keeping source files human-readable. Its core advantage lies in separating logical structure from visual layout so equations remain consistent across devices and print workflows.

This tool turns that raw LaTeX code into a scalable vector graphic preview using an in-browser mathematical rendering engine. Behind the scenes it parses your commands, builds an abstract syntax tree, calculates glyph dimensions, and compiles everything into SVG. A secondary rasterisation stage can then export the same figure as high-resolution PNG, JPEG, PDF, or validated MathML.

When you quickly need a polished equation for lecture slides, paste or type the LaTeX, tweak it in real time, and download the format your presentation software accepts. Because all processing happens locally inside your browser, your mathematical content never leaves your device—ensure you save your work before closing the tab.

Technical Details:

Concept Overview

LaTeX markup expresses mathematical notation as command sequences that describe symbols, operators, and layout directives. A client-side typesetting engine interprets these sequences, performs box-and-glue calculations, applies kerning tables, and emits resolution-independent SVG that preserves stroke precision and baseline alignment.

Core Process

1. Parse LaTeX into an abstract syntax tree (AST).
2. Compute glyph metrics and spacing for each node.
3. Assemble nodes into a hierarchical layout tree.
4. Generate SVG paths and grouping elements.
5. (Optional) Rasterise SVG to Canvas, then export PNG or JPEG.
6. (Optional) Wrap SVG structure in PDF or transcode to MathML.

Interpretation Bands

The exported image preserves vector outlines, allowing endless scaling without artefacts; raster outputs default to 300 dpi for crisp print quality. MathML retains semantic tags suited for accessibility technologies and downstream symbolic manipulation.

Key Parameters

• latex_code – raw command string entered by the user.
• display – toggles block versus inline layout.
• format – chosen export type: svg, png, jpeg, pdf, or mml.
• scale – rasterisation multiplier applied during image export (default × 3).

Assumptions & Limitations

• Assumes LaTeX syntax complies with standard math mode.
• Unicode glyph coverage follows the chosen font set.
• Line-breaking in multi-line equations is not automated.
• Browser must allow Canvas & Blob APIs for exports.

Edge Cases & Error Sources

• Unbalanced braces yield empty previews.
• Unsupported packages trigger literal output of commands.
• Very long fractions may exceed viewport width.
• Rasterising transparent backgrounds flattens colours to white.

Scientific Validity & References

Typesetting principles align with Knuth’s The TeXbook and the TeX fonts metric specification. MathML export follows W3C MathML 4 Working Draft recommendations.

Privacy & Compliance

No personal or document data is transmitted or stored; all processing remains inside your browser, supporting GDPR principles of data minimisation.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Follow this flow to convert your expression into the desired format:

1. Type or paste LaTeX into the editor area.
2. Select common symbols from the toolbar, or drag them onto the editor.
3. Observe the live SVG preview; adjustments appear after a short delay.
4. Click the PNG, JPEG, SVG, PDF, or MathML button to export.
5. Save your code locally if you plan to revisit later.

FAQ:

Glossary:

LaTeX

Markup language for scientific typesetting.

SVG

Scalable vector image format based on XML.

Rasterisation

Conversion from vectors to pixel grid.

MathML

XML schema describing mathematical semantics.

AST

Abstract syntax tree representing parsed code.