Slow LaTeX compilation is one of the most common frustrations researchers face — especially with large theses, image-heavy papers, and complex TikZ diagrams. Whether you're compiling locally or in a cloud editor, these seven techniques will dramatically speed up your builds.
1. Split Your Document with \input{} and \include{}
Monolithic .tex files are the #1 cause of slow compilation. Break your thesis or paper into chapter files:
% main.tex
\documentclass{report}
\begin{document}
\include{chapters/introduction}
\include{chapters/methodology}
\include{chapters/results}
\end{document}Use \includeonly{chapters/results} during writing to compile only the chapter you're editing. This alone can cut compile time by 70–80%.
2. Compress Your Images
High-resolution PNGs and TIFFs destroy compile times. Optimize before including them:
- Use 300 DPI for print, 150 DPI for drafts
- Prefer .pdf vector graphics for diagrams — they're smaller and sharper
- Run raster images through compression tools before including them
3. Use draft Mode While Writing
Adding draft to your document class skips image rendering entirely:
\documentclass[draft]{article}This shows placeholder boxes instead of images, making compilation nearly instant. Switch back to final when you're ready to submit.
4. Externalize TikZ and PGFPlots
TikZ diagrams are compiled from scratch every time. Use the external library to cache them:
\usetikzlibrary{external}
\tikzexternalize[prefix=figures/]Alternatively, export TikZ diagrams as standalone PDFs and include them as images — this is what many conference papers do.
5. Audit Your Preamble
Every \usepackage{} adds compile time. Trim unnecessary packages:
- Remove packages you included "just in case"
- Replace heavy packages with lighter alternatives (e.g.
mathtoolsoveramsmath+ extras) - Use our package guide to pick the right ones
6. Pick the Right Compiler
LuaLaTeX is significantly slower than pdfLaTeX for most documents. If you don't need Unicode fonts or advanced OpenType features, stick with pdfLaTeX — it's the fastest option. Read our compiler comparison guide for details.
7. Use an Editor with Fast Compilation
Your editor matters. Bibby AI offers:
- No arbitrary compile timeouts — your document compiles until it's done
- AI writing assistance — autocomplete, equation generation, and smart citations reduce the code you write (and compile)
- 75+ ready-to-use templates — start with optimized, tested document structures
- Cloud compilation — compile on fast servers instead of your laptop
Quick Reference
| Fix | Impact | Effort |
|---|---|---|
\includeonly{} | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| Image compression | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium |
| Draft mode | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| TikZ externalize | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium |
| Trim packages | ⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| Use pdfLaTeX | ⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| Use Bibby AI | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
Want faster compilation and AI-assisted writing? Try Bibby AI free — no compile limits, AI features, and all your favorite templates ready to go.