Installation of MiKTeX and Texmaker on Windows Computer

Here we install MiKTeX.

  1. Head to and download the latest version of MiKTeX.
  2. Save the executable file to you desktop (it is a large file so it may take a little time to download)
  3. Run the executable file in administrator mode. To do this, right click the file and choose “Run as Administrator”.
  4. First accept the MiKTeX conditions, install MiKTeX for everyone, hit next, and then choose the option “Yes” to install packages on the fly. Then click “Start”.
  5. The installation of MiKTeX will take some time. It could take anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes. Then click “Next” and then “Close”.

Now we install Texmaker.

  1. Head to and download the latest Windows version of Texmaker.
  2. Again save the executable file to your desktop. This file might also take a little time to download.
  3. Run is as administrator again. Click “I Agree” and “Install” and then “Close” when it’s finished.

Open a tex file in Texmaker. Click the “Quick Build” button at the top and if everything was installed correctly, then the generated file should appear on the right.

Installation of MacTeX and Texmaker on Apple’s Mac OS X

Here we install MacTeX.

  1. Head to and download the latest version of MacTeX.
  2. Open the download from your Downloads and initiate installation.
  3. Accept the MacTeX conditions, install MacTeX for everyone, proceed and hit “Install” for standard installation.
  4. The installation of MacTeX will take some time. It could take anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes.
  5. Note: MacTeX comes with TeX editor called TeXShop. It is recommended you use Texmaker (see below), but if you choose, you may nagivate to Applications > TexTeXShop and skip the installation of TexMaker.

Now we install Texmaker.

  1. Head to and download the appropriate version of Texmaker based on your Mac’s version of OS X.
  2. Texmaker does not require installation, and is able to run immediately after download. Depending on your security settings, you may need to head to System Preferences > Security & Privacy to enable use of Texmaker.

Open a tex file in Texmaker. Click the “Quick Build” button at the top and if everything was installed correctly, then the generated file should appear on the right.

Browser Based Alternatives

There are several websites that allow you to write and run LaTeX code without installing anything on your computer. Before using this option, consider the following advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages:

  1. No installation required
  2. Your files are accessible and able to be run from anywhere with internet
  3. Real time editing
  4. Excellent for collaboration (don’t cheat)

Disadvantages:

  1. Requires reliable internet connection
  2. Requires uploading of files when incorporating images

There are two quality providers with free offerings: