A Smart LaTeX Workflow with GitHub and VS Code

Feb 20, 25

When I was wrapping up my bachelor’s thesis a sprawling multi-file LaTeX project I faced a recurring frustration: setting up consistent builds across different machines while enabling collaborators and reviewers to effortlessly check my work.

My solution? A streamlined template that solves four challenges in one go:

  • A beginner-friendly LaTeX IDE
  • Automated build checks via GitHub Actions
  • Organized multi-document management
  • Instant, easy access for reviewers

1. IDE Made Easy with VS Code & Docker

Writing LaTeX side-by-side with live previews = game-changer.
I transitioned from Gummi to VS Code with the LaTeX Workshop extension and Docker.

This setup allows me to compile using a containerized TeXLive image regardless of OS no more messy local installs. Using .vscode/settings and extensions preconfigured with pdflatex ensures teammates can clone and run the project instantly.

drawing

2. CI for LaTeX - Build Checks on Every PR

To safeguard build consistency, I added GitHub Actions that mirror the Docker environment used locally.

Now, any LaTeX changes in a pull request trigger a build check validating the document before merging. Only modified LaTeX projects are tested, minimizing GitHub Actions minutes.

Clean checks or helpful errors pop up right in the PR.

drawing

3. Seamless Publishing via Releases and GitHub Pages

Keeping reviewers in the loop is easier than ever. The template:

  • Exposes a downloadable PDF from the default branch
  • Optionally publishes a live, embedded HTML view via GitHub Pages

These previews let non-technical reviewers instantly access the latest PDF no need to clone, install, or build.

drawing

4. Bonus: Better LaTeX Editing Practices

To make version control friendlier, consider restructuring your LaTeX workflow:

  • Split chapters into separate .tex files and include them modularly
  • Use Git features like branches, tags, and latexdiff for comparison and tracking

Summary Table: Fast Reference

Feature Benefit
VS Code + Docker Instant, consistent build environment
GitHub Actions CI Builds validated on every change
GitHub Releases & Pages Preview and share PDFs automatically
Enhanced LaTeX habits Cleaner diffs, easier collaboration

Final Thoughts

This workflow combines beginner-friendly development, reliable builds, automated releases, and cleaner LaTeX practices.

It’s a modern, reproducible way to manage LaTeX projects on GitHub and an approach I’ll continue refining for future writing and collaboration.