> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://overleaf-pro.ayaka.space/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://overleaf-pro.ayaka.space/latex/knowledge-base/063-how-do-i-use-overleaf.md).

# How do I use Overleaf?

**If you are familiar with LaTeX** then using Overleaf couldn’t be simpler because we provide full support for direct LaTeX editing and automatically compile your document for you on our servers—there’s nothing to install! All you need to do is create a document, select the **Code Editor** and begin writing your LaTeX code:

![Image showing the Code Editor and Visual Editor](/files/oLcHzOhMsGEhbM4Wfcjv)

**If you are new to LaTeX** and need some help to get started, our [tutorials](https://www.overleaf.com/tutorial) page lists a wide range of learning materials to jump-start your LaTeX journey. We’ve also pre-loaded a range of [templates and examples](https://www.overleaf.com/latex/templates) into Overleaf to help you create your first document.

**Another option for beginners** is to start with a [sample document](https://www.overleaf.com/docs?template=overleaf\&rich_text=true) using the **Visual Editor** and use that to explore Overleaf:

![Image showing how to use Overleaf.](/files/MLWziMjlKQyBmhRmO16W)

We hope you enjoy using Overleaf, and if you've any comments or questions, please get in touch via our [contact page](https://www.overleaf.com/contact).


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# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter:

```
GET https://overleaf-pro.ayaka.space/latex/knowledge-base/063-how-do-i-use-overleaf.md?ask=<question>&goal=<endgoal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal.

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Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.