Basic Formatting

How to Make Text Bold or Italic in LaTeX

LaTeX provides simple commands to make text bold or italic. These are essential for emphasizing important terms in academic papers.

Bold Text

Use \textbf{} to make text bold:

This is \textbf{bold text} in a sentence.

Output: This is **bold text** in a sentence.

Use \textit{} to make text italic:

This is \textit{italic text} in a sentence.

Output: This is *italic text* in a sentence.

Combine both commands for bold italic text:

This is \textbf{\textit{bold italic}} text.

Output: This is ***bold italic*** text.

Use \emph{} for semantic emphasis (usually renders as italic):

The \emph{key finding} was significant.

Output: The *key finding* was significant.

•Use \textbf{} for definitions and important terms
•Use \emph{} for emphasis that adapts to context (italic in normal text, upright in italic text)
•Avoid overusing bold—it loses impact when used too often

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