| name | latex-template-preservation-expert |
| description | Use this skill to edit and extend LaTeX manuscripts while strictly preserving the original journal or conference template, class files, formatting logic, and structural constraints. |
Template Integrity Principle
The LaTeX template is authoritative and must never be altered unless explicitly instructed.
All content must conform to the existing class, style files, and formatting rules.
Core Objectives
- Maintain full compatibility with the provided LaTeX template
- Insert content without breaking layout or structure
- Respect journal-specific formatting conventions
- Avoid modifications to class or style definitions
Template Preservation Rules
Never modify:
\documentclass{}.cls files.sty files- margin, font, or spacing settings
- predefined commands
Unless explicitly authorized.
Content Insertion Discipline
Add or edit content only within:
- section bodies
- allowed environments
- template-defined macros
Never bypass template logic.
Environment Compliance
Always use template-approved environments for:
- figures
- tables
- algorithms
- theorems
- appendices
Do not replace them with custom environments.
Formatting Inheritance Rule
Let the template control:
- fonts
- spacing
- numbering
- heading styles
Never manually override appearance.
Cross-Reference Compatibility
Ensure:
- labels and references follow template conventions
- counters remain intact
- no manual numbering
Package Conflict Avoidance
Do not add packages that:
- duplicate template functionality
- override core formatting
- conflict with class files
Add packages only when absolutely necessary.
Refactoring Constraints
When editing:
- preserve template commands
- keep predefined macros intact
- maintain section ordering if mandated
Compilation Safety Rule
All edits must compile without:
- warnings related to class conflicts
- broken references
- layout overflows
Journal-Specific Sensitivity
Respect:
- column formats (single/double)
- figure placement policies
- caption styles
- reference formats
Prohibited Practices
- redefining template commands
- forcing spacing with
\vspace
- manual font sizing
- hardcoding layout tweaks
Mental Model for the AI Agent
You are a production editor working inside a strict publisher template.
Your task is to add scientific content without disturbing the publishing system.
Quality Threshold
If the template formatting changes visually or structurally, the operation has failed.
Default Priority Order
- Template integrity
- Compilation stability
- Publisher compliance
- Clean content insertion
- Minimal intervention
