CTAN &c. (was Re: [texhax] (no subject))

[William F. Adams]

On Aug 4, 2005, at 7:12 PM, b sprecher wrote:

> i have a question about using TeX to type-set math in an on-line 
> class:  are there canned packages for on-line (jr. college) math 
> classes with which i could use my TeX files?

See below.

> also, i have questions about the TUG membership form:
>
> 1.  what is the TeX collection and how does/will the 2005 differ from 
> the 2004?

It's the standard software bundle of TeXLive &c. It gets updated every 
year w/ new stuff, especially the ``snapshot'' of CTAN, see below.

> 2.  what is a ctan?

``The Comprehensive TeX Archive Network is the authoritative collection 
of materials related to the TeX typesetting system.''

http://www.ctan.org/

It's where everyone should put all TeX-related materials for general / 
public use / sharing. Usually, if you can't find a package or tool for 
your specific purpose there you'll either need to write it or buy it.

William

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William Adams, publishing specialist
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