How to Use the Command 'texdoc' (with Examples)

The texdoc command is a helpful utility for users of (La)TeX, a typesetting system commonly used for scientific and mathematical documents. This tool allows users to effortlessly search for and access the relevant documentation for LaTeX commands or packages, making it easier to understand and effectively use them. The utility simplifies the process of finding detailed information, whether you’re working on a complex document or simply need clarification on a specific package.

Use Case 1: Open the First Search Result in the Default PDF Viewer

Code:

texdoc search

Motivation:

When working with LaTeX, there might be occasions where you need information about a specific package or command quickly. The texdoc command is designed to streamline this process by not only searching through available documentation but by also opening the top search result in your default PDF viewer. This use case is particularly useful when you’re in the middle of writing code and don’t wish to interrupt your workflow with a lengthy search process. It minimizes time spent looking for documentation and allows you to stay focused on your primary task.

Explanation:

• texdoc: This is the command used to search for documentation. Typing it initiates the search process.
• search: This term represents whatever keyword or name of the package or command you are searching for. The command looks for relevant documentation matching this keyword.

Example Output:

Upon executing the command, the documentation PDF for the search term will automatically open in your default PDF viewer, allowing you to quickly access the information you need.

Use Case 2: List the Best Search Results

Code:

texdoc --list search

Motivation:

Sometimes, you may want to review a list of potential documentation files that match your search term so that you can select the most relevant item to open. Using the --list option with the texdoc command provides this functionality, which can be particularly beneficial when dealing with ambiguous package names or when you’re uncertain about the precise document you’re looking for. It offers a clear overview and enables better decision-making regarding which document to explore further.

Explanation:

• texdoc: As before, this is the command used to search for documentation.
• --list: This flag alters the behavior of texdoc to list all potential matches rather than opening the top result. It provides a numbered list of available documents based on relevance to your search term.
• search: The keyword or package name you are searching for, to filter the results.

Example Output:

The command will produce an output listing several documentation files. Each entry includes a short description and potentially the relevance of the document. You can use this list to determine which document you wish to open manually using another viewer or revisit with texdoc.

Use Case 3: Open Full Documentation of texdoc

Code:

texdoc texdoc

Motivation:

Understanding how to use a command effectively is essential, so accessing its own documentation can be incredibly useful. The texdoc command allows users to open its full documentation through this straightforward command. This is beneficial not only for new users who want to learn about all the functionalities texdoc offers, but also for experienced users who wish to optimize their use of the command.

Explanation:

• texdoc: Invokes the documentation search command.
• texdoc: This instance of “texdoc” as an argument searches for the documentation relating to the texdoc command itself. Thus, this command will open the comprehensive guide about texdoc.

Example Output:

Running this command opens the complete user manual for texdoc in the default PDF viewer, letting users explore the various options and configurations it supports.

Conclusion:

The texdoc command line utility provides an efficient and user-friendly method for accessing (La)TeX documentation. Whether directly opening the most relevant documentation, listing potential results for a more informed choice, or checking the documentation for texdoc itself, the command caters to a variety of user needs, ultimately enhancing productivity in document preparation with (La)TeX.