Writing with TeX is, in fact, not as difficult as it seems.  As you learn more about TeX, you will find that TeX can actually produce the nicest paper for you...

There are 2 types of files in LaTeX that we should be familiar with:
 

• The source file (.tex):   It is made up of  text, math, and instructions to LaTeX.  The file is opened by the editor.
• The device independent (.dvi) file:  It contains the typeset version of the source file.  In other words, this file displays your work; it shows you what your work is going to look like.

Tips for beginner

%

indicates comment

\\

indicates a new line. Double blank lines also indicate a new line.

~     @     #     $     %     ^     &         _      {     }     |     "

are thirteen special keys, used mostly in LaTeX instructions. There are special commands to type most of these special characters if you need them in text. For instance, $ is typed as \$, _ is typed as \_, and % is typed as \%; however, @ is typed as @.