Converting Word files to LaTeX

Converting Word files to LaTeX

There are two steps:
  1. Convert the text, and
  2. Convert the equations.
Please note: You must have MathType 4.0 (or later) installed in order to convert the equations.

Converting the text

Follow these steps:
  1. Save the Word file as an RTF file.
  2. Double-click on rtf2ltx.exe (in c:\swp30\rtf\rtf2ltx.exe).
  3. Click on Browse to find your RTF file.
  4. You may wish to adjust the Character Attributes.
  5. Click on Convert.
You now have a TEX file with all your text, but no equations.

Convert the Equations

Follow these steps:
  1. Open the Word file in Word.
  2. Open the TEX file in Scientific WorkPlace (or Wordpad).
  3. Double-click on the equation in Word to be converted.
  4. You will now be in MathType.
  5. Click on Preferences and Translators....
  6. Click on Translate to other language (text).
  7. Choose: TeX -- LaTeX 2.09 or later.
  8. Please Note: You will only have to set this customization once.
  9. Highlight the equation to be copied using Ctrl-A. Copy it to the Windows clipboard using Ctrl-C.
  10. Paste the equation into the TEX file where it belongs.
  11. In the case of Scientific WorkPlace, you must first click on Insert Field TeX.... When you paste, all that will appear on the screen is [TeX Field]. However, once you save and re-load the file the actual equation will appear on the screen.
When you have finished, save the TEX file. If you are using WordPad you will be prompted to select the type of file to save it as - save it as a Text Document.

Created by Colin Campbell, IST with special thanks to Linda Kelly in Physics for assistance in testing and documenting these steps. Any errors or omissions are mine alone. Colin.