3 Beginning a Texinfo File

Certain pieces of information must be provided at the beginning of a Texinfo file, such as the name for the output file(s), the title of the document, and the Top node. A table of contents is also generally produced here.

This chapter expands on the minimal complete Texinfo source file previously given (see Six Parts). It describes the numerous commands for handling the traditional frontmatter items in Texinfo.

Straight text outside of any command before the Top node should be avoided. Such text is treated differently in the different output formats: visible in TeX and HTML, by default not shown in Info readers, and so on.

• Sample Beginning: A sample beginning for a Texinfo file.
• Texinfo File Header: The first lines.
• Document Permissions: Ensuring your manual is free.
• Titlepage & Copyright Page: Creating the title and copyright pages.
• Contents: How to create a table of contents.
• The Top Node: Creating the `Top' node and master menu.
• Global Document Commands: Affecting formatting throughout.
• Software Copying Permissions: Ensure that you and others continue to have the right to use and share software.