How to Compile Documents using XeTeX (with examples)
XeTeX is a distinctive typesetting system that allows users to produce high-quality PDF documents from source files. It is particularly adept at handling complex scripts, supporting Unicode, and offering advanced font capabilities. XeTeX is widely used in academia, publishing, and for any task requiring precise control over document presentation. By compiling documents with XeTeX, users benefit from enhanced typographic quality and the ability to leverage modern font technologies seamlessly.
Use case 1: Compile a PDF Document from a Source File
Code:
xetex source.tex
Motivation:
This use case represents the fundamental operation of XeTeX—compiling a document from a .tex file into a PDF. This is a common task for academics, authors, and designers who wish to transform their richly formatted LaTeX or ConTeXt source documents into final versions ready for printing or distribution. By executing this command, users harness XeTeX’s capabilities to produce professional-looking documents efficiently.
Explanation:
xetex: Invokes the XeTeX program.source.tex: Represents the input source file in TeX format that XeTeX will process. This file typically includes structured content, formatting instructions, and references to resources such as fonts and graphics.
Example Output:
Upon running the command, XeTeX processes the source.tex file and generates a corresponding PDF. The terminal output might show the progress of compilation and any warnings or messages, while the final PDF document is saved in the same directory as the input file.
Use case 2: Compile and Specify an Output Directory
Code:
xetex -output-directory=path/to/directory source.tex
Motivation:
Specifying an output directory is incredibly useful when managing projects that involve multiple files. For example, a writer working on a book might want to organize output PDFs separate from source files. By directing XeTeX to place output files in a designated directory, users can maintain a cleaner workspace and efficiently manage versions of their documents.
Explanation:
xetex: As before, this is the main program command.-output-directory=path/to/directory: This option directs XeTeX to save output files into the specified directory. It allows users to keep the generated PDFs separate from the source files.source.tex: The input TeX format file which XeTeX will compile into a PDF.
Example Output:
When you run this command, XeTeX processes the file just like in the first use case, but the resulting PDF is placed in the specified “path/to/directory”. This keeps the original folder uncluttered, with only TeX source files remaining in it.
Use case 3: Compile with Error Handling
Code:
xetex -halt-on-error source.tex
Motivation:
This use case is valuable in automated workflows or scripting environments where detecting and responding to errors is critical. For example, in a continuous integration system where multiple documents are compiled automatically, it’s essential that any compilation errors immediately halt the process. This ensures that faulty documents do not get distributed and allows developers or authors to address errors promptly.
Explanation:
xetex: The program command to execute XeTeX.-halt-on-error: This option directs XeTeX to stop processing immediately upon encountering an error. Unlike typical operation—which may continue after non-critical errors—this ensures that serious issues are brought to attention.source.tex: The source file to be compiled, as in previous examples.
Example Output:
When executed, the command compiles the source file. If XeTeX encounters an error that it deems critical during the process, it stops and does not produce an output PDF. The terminal will display error messages and terminate, allowing the user to investigate and correct any issues.
Conclusion:
Understanding how to use XeTeX to compile documents efficiently allows users to fully leverage its capabilities in producing high-quality documents. By mastering these basic commands, users can streamline their document production, maintain organizational structure, and ensure the integrity of their outputs through effective error handling.
