Future-Proofing Latex: Rethinking Captions And Algorithms For Clarity And Consistency
The Problem with Current Approaches
When writing technical documents, figures, images, tables, and algorithms are essential elements that augment the narrative flow. However, the current approaches for presenting these elements in LaTeX lead to inconsistent and confusing formatting. Captions often lack customization and algorithms are restricted to rigid layouts that fail to emphasize logical flow. As LaTeX continues to grow as the gold standard for technical publishing, we must rethink captions and algorithms to promote clarity, consistency, and longevity.
Inconsistent and Confusing Caption Formatting
LaTeX provides basic commands like \caption and \label to add captions and label figures or tables. However, the default settings for font, size, and styling fail to meet the needs of complex documents. As a result, captions in the same document can appear disjointed - with different text sizes, inconsistent capitalization or punctuation, and confusing or lengthy numbering schemes.
Lack of Customization for Algorithm Layouts
The standard algorithm and algorithmic environments in LaTeX apply rigid stylistic rules for all algorithms. For example, lines are always separated by horizontal lines and spacing is predetermined. This uniform layout causes issues when logical units within algorithms contain further nested steps. The rigidity hinders authors from emphasizing certain parts of an algorithm over others.
Standardizing Caption Syntax
The key to clarity and consistency for captions is standardizing their syntax upfront. LaTeX provides the \captionsetup command to globally alter caption parameters like font, size, color, and numbering. By applying \captionsetup uniformly, captions take on a regular shape across document elements like figures, tables, and algorithms.
Using \captionsetup for Consistent Formatting
Here is an example \captionsetup command that transforms all captions to use small fontsize, bold label font, and italic body text:
\captionsetup{font=small,labelfont=bf,textfont=it}This standard caption shape now persists for every caption, replacing LaTeX's default disjointed settings. Authors gain clarity from the unified syntax while flexibility remains to override styles for unique cases.
Customizing Algorithm Layouts
Algorithms demand more intricate customizations focused on emphasizing logical flow - not strictly presentation details. The algorithm2e LaTeX package introduces improved layouts that weed out rigid stylistic rules. Sections like Inputs and Outputs can receive distinct formatting to aid comprehension.
The algorithm2e Package
The algorithm2e package overrides the aesthetics-focused approach of the standard algorithm environments. For example, applying \SetAlgoNoLine completely removes intrusive horizontal lines that obstruct logical connections:
\SetAlgoNoLineAuthors can also highlight key functional units like Inputs and Outputs using dedicated LaTeX macros. Overall, algorithm2e enables authors to guide readers through nuanced logical sequences without congested or confusing layout quirks.
Caption Numbers and Cross-Referencing
Navigating a document relies heavily on contextual cues like caption numbers and cross-references. LaTeX autogenerates caption numbering when you apply the \caption command. However, careless use of \caption without the paired \label macro produces dislocated references.
Using \caption and \label for Automatic Numbering
Here is an example of using \caption and \label to correctly number and reference a figure:
Fig. \ref{fig:example}The \label{fig:example} appears within or just after a \caption command that numbers the figure. The \ref macro then cross-references the numbered figure in the text. This linking between captions and references keeps numbering synchronized even when content moves.
Best Practices for Accessible Documents
Technical documents extend beyond sighted readers, so universal accessibility matters when thinking long-term. For visually-impaired readers using screen readers, figures, tables, algorithms pose unique challenges without alternate descriptions. Furthermore, concise and keyword-rich captions make comprehension easier for all readers.
Add Alternate Text for Visual Elements
Images, charts, figures all should provide alternate text for screen readers using the alt attribute:
<img alt="Description of image contents" src="...">LaTeX provides specialized alt text macros like \alt for the graphicx package. Remember, describe the meaningful information not just the physical appearance.
Use Descriptive Caption Text
The caption itself also aids accessibility when written clearly, directly stating the key insights or findings. Eliminate vague descriptors relying on visible details. Stick to the crux that makes the visual element worth including.
Building for the Future
Future-proofing means LaTeX documents published today should remain functional and clear for decades more development. Luckily, LaTeX enables constant extensibility through programmatic customization of commands and environments.
Extensibility Through Packages and Macros
Packages like algorithm2e demonstrate how authors can override defaults to better serve document needs rather than rigid standards. Defining custom document classes, commands, and macros ensures a lasting foundation. The LaTeX3 project pushes towards more intuitive, flexible foundations for ambitious publishing needs.
Setting Standards for Your Documents
No document environment proves perfectly universal or everlasting. But anchoring around customized environments, caption conventions, cross-referencing integrity lays the groundwork. Regularly reevaluating and codifying standards via comments, manuals, and style guides gifts future authors a solid starting point and healthy adaptive mechanism for maintainability.
