The RTextDoc LaTeX editor put to the test
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Those daring to use LaTeX for the first time might want to start off with an editor – a program such as RTextDoc [1]. Such a program promises a lot of additional comfort functions beyond checking syntax that allow correct document formatting with minimal mouse clicks.
The fact that GPL app RTextDoc is written in Java, which means you need the corresponding runtime environment (see the "Installation" box), but it also means it runs just as well on Linux as Mac OS X and Windows. Additional plugins add flexibility extending the base editor. Technically, the software is based on the RText [2] editor also implemented in Java.
A glance at the list of features shows why it's worthwhile giving this program a try. The software supports more than 20 languages, including spell-checking and a built-in grammar checker through LanguageTool [3]. You can also add simple drawings, with the software highlighting the LaTeX syntax and other markup languages directly in the source code. RTextDoc handles bookmarks and grouping of sections, as well as line numbering and bracket pairing testing. Finally, it supports syntax highlighting for programming languages, along with references and BibTeX checking. A WYSIWYG mode is available for math formulas, and additional functions can be added to menus and macros.
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