The CIGAL manual is used as either a printed user's guide, or an
on-line resource via CIGAL's HELP command. The exact same information
is available in both formats. This manual divides into short topics,
each intended to cover only a single aspect of CIGAL's programming
language. These short topics are designed for easy reference of the
relative information about individual features. This manual is also
designed as a learning tool, or an easy way of remembering how to use
specific command features on-line. Each entry frequently references
other topics containing related information. By following the relevant
suggestions, you should be able to quickly locate the information you
need.
The fragmented organization of this manual is somewhat less
convenient when using the printed manual, particularly for new users
looking for introductory information about more general features.
To compensate for this, the printed manual is organized into chapters.
The table of contents provides a general breakdown of the range of
material covered in each specific chapter. At the beginning of each
chapter there is a list of the specific topics covered in that chapter.
Topics are arranged alphabetically within each chapter. Most chapters
contain reference information on specific CIGAL features and therefore
assume you already have some idea of what topics you are looking for.
If you are new to CIGAL or don't have a specific topic in mind, then
concentrate on chapter 1, which contains general information regarding
CIGAL's capabilities.