> Sure. So please go searching.

I think the basic misunderstanding here is the fact that the lyx docs and the 
developers have been trying to plug Lyx to a larger audience than it's really 
suitable for. Lyx is a perfect tool, but not for all the people it's creators 
claim it to be perfect for.

One can only put Lyx to its fullest use if one knows Latex. And not just a 
little bit, but knows it pretty well. Then Lyx will take over the more 
routine tasks and leave the person to worry about the more subtle aspects. By 
subtle I mean the tips and tricks and stuff, tweaking this and that to be 
just as you want it and using the more complex and powerful features 
effectively.

So one could look at it one of two ways. 

1) Lyx is a great learning tool for Latex, an intermediary step for somebody 
who intends to eventually learn it but needs something to carry them through 
the transition.

2) Lyx is a tool for Latex users, meant to streamline their work and save 
time.

The problem with issue number 5 in the initial post, is that it's not clear if 
it would even be possible or even desirable. It would mean creating a 
graphical user interface for the whole of Latex. That seems like a pretty 
major undertaking, and not likely to get done soon. If you want the full 
power of Latex it seems like there's no way out but to .... use Latex. 

I think the fundamental problem is the fact that document editing is in itself 
a very complex problem with no simple solution.

For me, for right now, for example, what I can get out of Lyx alone, with no 
knowledge of Latex, is approximate, but it's OK. If I were to start writing 
tons of articles or 30000 word documents, I would save myself the nervous 
breakdowns by taking a few weeks/months to get Latex down and then just ride 
the Lyx wave.

As for the tables and the hyperlinks, I agree with the initial post.

Alex.

PS. And it's all meant as constructive criticism. I am a Lyx user, so what's 
good for Lyx is good for me.

Reply via email to