My favorite LaTeX packages
I have been using LaTeX a lot lately but not too long ago to take its magic for granted. So, I think it might be useful for beginners who want to enjoy using LaTeX.
Physics
It’s created for making typing physics equations quicker, hence the name, physics. Here the link to the package’s page on CTAN, physics.
For instance, Auto size parentheses command is a time-saver for me. Instead of typing \Big( or \big( everytime I put parentheses over some big mathematical notations, I can just put \pqty{} and let the complier handle the sizing for me.
These are some of the commands I find useful.
Auto size parentheses %\pqty{}
$$\pqty{F+x\frac{2}{2}}$$Quickly write derivatives
$$\dv{t} x$$or
$$\dv{x}{t}$$If it's of n order
$$\dv[n]{x}{t}$$Or a partial derivative, they behave the same as a total
$$\pdv{t}$$
Braket notation
$$ \bra{x} $$
$$ \ket{x} $$Inner and outter product
$$ \braket{x}{y} $$
$$ \ketbra{x}{y} $$Matrices
$$ \mqty{1 & 2 \\ 3 & 4} $$
$$ \pmqty{1 & 2 \\ 3 & 4} $$ %Round parenthesis
$$ \bmqty{1 & 2 \\ 3 & 4} $$ %Rectangular parenthesis
Xcolor
This is a package for text colouring. I usually use this to make note to myself in writing process or to make some text stand out. Here’s its CTAN page, xcolor.
The following text is \textcolor{red}{colored.}I usually use this to make note to myself or my colleages. It helps remind me that there’s something I need to do before publish my work.
Fonts
I know that the default font is great and classy. However, I find it enjoyable to try a new typeface.
Here’s some of my favourite fonts
Times
To use Times for regular text and math text you need the following packages
\usepackage{newtxtext,newtxmath}
Libertine, Libertinus
\usepackage{libertine}
\usepackage{libertinust1math}
\usepackage[T1]{fontenc}
You might notice that they are all serif. That’s because I am not fond sans-serif fonts, especially with equations.
Anyway, that’s all I have in mind. Hope you enjoy!
