Common LaTeX Errors (and How to Fix Them)

Introduction

LaTeX is one of the most powerful typesetting systems used for academic papers, research, theses, and technical documents. However, beginners (and even experienced users) often encounter confusing errors that can break document compilation.

In this article, we’ll cover the most common LaTeX errors and provide clear solutions with examples. Whether you’re writing math equations, formatting figures, or building tables, this guide will help you troubleshoot faster and write smoothly.

(If you are just starting out, check our guide on LaTeX Basic Commands before diving in.)

1. Missing $ or Misplaced Math Mode

Error Example:

! Missing $ inserted.

Cause: You forgot to enclose your math expression in $...$ (inline) or \[...\] (display).

Fix:

• Use $a + b = c$ for inline math.
• Use \[ E = mc^2 \] for displayed equations.

2. Undefined Control Sequence

Error Example:

! Undefined control sequence.

Cause: This usually means you typed a LaTeX command incorrectly or forgot to load a required package.

Fix:

• Double-check spelling (\textbf not \textbf{}).
• Add the right package in the preamble. For example:\usepackage{amsmath}

3. Extra } or Forgotten }

Error Example:

! Extra }, or forgotten \endgroup.

Cause: You added one too many braces {} or forgot to close one.

Fix:

• Match every { with a corresponding }.
• Use a good LaTeX editor like Overleaf or TeXstudio, which highlights brace mismatches.
  

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4. File Not Found Error

Error Example:

! LaTeX Error: File `image.png` not found.

Cause: The file path is incorrect, or the image doesn’t exist.

Fix:

• Place the file in the same directory as your .tex file.
• Use the correct path:\includegraphics{images/image.png}

5. Misplaced Alignment Tab (&)

Error Example:

! Misplaced alignment tab character &.

Cause: The & alignment character is used incorrectly in a table or equation.

Fix:

• Use & only within table rows or equation alignment environments.
• Example (correct):\begin{tabular}{c c} A & B \\ C & D \end{tabular}

6. Overfull or Underfull Boxes

Warning Example:

Overfull \hbox (7.0pt too wide) in paragraph at lines 10--12

Cause: LaTeX couldn’t fit the text neatly in the line or box.

Fix:

• Use \sloppy or \raggedright (not recommended for formal docs).
• Adjust with \linebreak or resize content.

7. LaTeX Warning: Label(s) may have changed.

Cause: Labels and references (\label, \ref) need multiple compilation passes.

Fix:

• Simply recompile your document twice.

Conclusion

LaTeX errors may seem overwhelming at first, but with practice, you’ll learn to recognize and fix them quickly. Using a good editor, carefully checking syntax, and loading the right packages will save hours of debugging.

(For a detailed list of error handling, check Overleaf’s official LaTeX help).

( You may also want to explore our guide on LaTeX Table Commands.)

FAQs on Common LaTeX Errors

Q1. How do I find the exact location of a LaTeX error?
Most editors like Overleaf, TeXworks, or TeXstudio show the line number in the log where the error occurred. Always check the .log file for details.

Q2. What should I do if my bibliography doesn’t compile?
You need to run BibTeX or Biber after LaTeX compilation, depending on your bibliography style.

Q3. Can LaTeX errors be ignored?
Warnings (like overfull boxes) can be ignored sometimes, but actual errors (like undefined control sequence) must be fixed for the document to compile.

Q4. How can beginners avoid LaTeX errors?

• Always compile frequently.
• Use Overleaf or another editor with real-time error highlighting.
• Keep your document structure clean and modular.

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