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How to Include Images in LaTeX

Published in LaTeX Graphics 3 mins read

Including images in your LaTeX document is a straightforward process that involves using a specific package and command. The core steps are adding the necessary package to your document's preamble and then using the graphics command where you want the image to appear.

The Two Essential Steps

To successfully integrate images into your LaTeX files, you primarily need to follow these two key steps, as referenced:

1. Add the graphicx Package

The first crucial step is to enable LaTeX's graphics capabilities. This is done by including the graphicx package in the preamble of your document. The preamble is the section before the \begin{document} command.

  • Action: Add the following line in your document's preamble:
    \usepackage{graphicx}
  • Purpose: This command makes the \includegraphics command available for use within your document.

2. Use the \includegraphics Command

Once the graphicx package is loaded, you can insert images using the \includegraphics command. This command is placed exactly where you want the image to appear in your text.

  • Action: Use the command \includegraphics{filename} where filename is the name of your image file.
    \includegraphics{my_image_file.jpg}
  • Purpose: This command tells LaTeX to insert the specified image file at the current location in the document.

Uploading Your Image File

Before LaTeX can include your image, the image file itself must be accessible to your LaTeX compiler. If you are using an online LaTeX editor (like Overleaf or ShareLaTeX, as suggested by the reference mentioning an upload button), you will need to upload your image file to your project directory using the platform's upload feature. If you are working locally, ensure the image file is in the same directory as your .tex file, or specify the correct path to the image file.

  • Action: Upload your image file (e.g., .jpg, .png, .pdf) using the upload button in your LaTeX environment or place it in the correct directory locally.

By following these steps – including the graphicx package, using the \includegraphics command with your image filename, and ensuring the image file is accessible – you can successfully add images to your LaTeX documents.

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