Document 624

Using the LaTeX .log file

Version: 2.x, 3.x, 4.x, 5.x - Scientific WorkPlace & Scientific Word

Whenever you typeset your document to create a DVI or PDF file, LaTeX generates a series of messages that it writes to the LaTeX window and, along with additional information, stores in a file. The file carries the name of your document and an extension of .log.

The .log file records precisely what happens during the typesetting process. Among other information, it includes

• The document class and any class option files used by the document

• The names of any LaTeX packages used by the document

• The names of any files read and closed

• The numbers of all pages processed

• The size of the typeset file

The .log file also includes warnings and error messages related to any problems that occur during the process, such as unresolved cross-references, improperly matched delimiters, misspelled commands, missing command arguments, or underfull and overfull boxes.

The information in the .log file can help you resolve LaTeX errors quickly. Pay particular attention to any errors that have occurred in the document preamble. Such errors are noted before the indication of the first page of text, which is shown as [1].

Last revised 05/15/06