TEX File Extension

What is TEX file?

TEX is the short form of LaTeX and the files with TEX extension are associated with LaTeX software application which is a typesetting application. TEX files mostly contain alphabets or other characters which include signs and other mathematical expressions.

The main application of TEX files is in printing of books which include mathematical expressions or other scientific notations which include engineering books. The main purpose of introducing TEX file format was to make easy for end user to type and to print books and to provide people with a system which can provide with same result on every operating system.

Programs which support TEX file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with TEX files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. TEX files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 06/01/2020

How to open file with TEX extension?

Problems with accessing TEX may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to LaTeX Source Document files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with TEX files.

Step 1. Download and install TeXworks

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening TEX files is that no program that can handle TEX files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing TeXworks or different compatible program, such as gVim, LaTeX, TeXnicCenter. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit TeXworks website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update TeXworks to the latest version

If the problems with opening TEX files still occur even after installing TeXworks, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of TeXworks is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that TeXworks cannot handle files with TEX may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of TeXworks should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open TEX files to TeXworks

After installing TeXworks (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open TEX files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the TEX with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where TeXworks is installed, check the Always use this app to open TEX files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with TEX extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with TEX extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the TEX for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the TEX file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the TEX in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the TEX is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the TEX file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the TEX file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with TEX extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the TEX file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the TEX file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the LaTeX Source Document file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open TeXworks

If the systems has insufficient resources to open TEX files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with LaTeX Source Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the TEX files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the TEX file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on TEX file.