Google Docs to LaTeX

Staff from the department have developed some tools to automate conversion of Google Docs documents to LaTeX documents (and PDF files). This is especially useful to enable ad hoc collaboration on research papers and articles between geographically distant scientists. Refer to the Extending Google Docs to Collaborate on Research Papers technical report for more information. There has also been a Seminar on Google Docs Extensions which may be of interest.

While some knowledge of LaTeX is useful if you want to work with these tools, it is not strictly necessary. Note that work on the tools is ongoing, and that you need to login with a USQConnect account for security reasons.

Tools

Conversion from Google Docs to LaTeX

There are two versions of the conversion tool available: one requires that you use Google Docs as a flat LaTeX text editor and allows you to upload styles and packages, while the second is for novice users who use Google Docs' styles and tables and want to choose from a limited number of output layouts.

• Simple Convert lets you use Google Docs styles, tables etc, and gives you a limited number of output layout choices. You don't need knowledge of LaTeX to use this simple conversion tool. You gain the ability of creating high quality PDF files.
• Power Convert asks you to use Google Docs as a flat text editor in which you type all of your LaTeX code, and allows you to upload LaTeX styles and packages for full power. You gain the ability to work collaboratively on LaTeX files without needing access to CVS or SVN, while retaining all the power LaTeX gives you.

Synchronization of Off-Line documents with Google Docs

This tool is still under construction. It allows you to work on a LaTeX document off-line, and synchronize it with a version that is stored on Google Docs. Hence you can collaborate on-line and off-line. Since Google Docs currently does not have an API , some user interaction is required when using this tool.

• Synchronize Tool Test Version.

Links

• Google Docs Commercial service; requires free Google account.
• LaTeX free typesetting software.