Templates

[Andy Hilgartner]

Hi --
        I write scientific papers, occasionally including some mathematics 
(mainly set theory). I've used "word-processors" from the era of WordStar, 
under the CP/M operating system in the early 1980's, to Microsoft Word XP 
and OpenOffice/StarOffice. I function as an elderly (age 72) 
computer-user-former-typewriter-user, not a hotshot youngster who has 
computers eating out of his hand.
        With a bit of coaching from a young friend -- who solved those 
install/configure problems that would have floored me -- I recently started 
using LyX 1.3.3 (mostly in the Windows port, on Windows XP operating 
system). I've never used TeX, have only glanced at LaTeX, and although I 
desire to abandon MS Windows althogether, so far I've only dabbled in Linux 
and Lindows/Linspire. I have spent some time reading the LyX Tutorials.
        I have a text paper on my easel, and a related, longer, more 
technical one one which will include some set theory (and will go to an 
Elsevier journal) next in line. So far, I have found no way that works to 
modify or abandon the "article" Layout > Document formatting available in 
"native" LyX. Piecemeal changes, inflicted via the Layout facility, don't 
persist in successive versions of the paper, and when they "revert", they 
make the layout (viewed in DVI) look grisly.
        Once I even found the Elsevier template (elsart.lyx) inside LyX, 
under Templates. But I have not succeeded in making it WORK while I 
continue creating my document.
        Please guide me -- how can I obtain effective help with this problem?
                                                Yours,
                                                Andy Hilgartner

C. A. Hilgartner                Phone:  660-627-2519
2413 North East Street          FAX:    660-627-2930 (voice contact first, 
please)
Kirksville  MO  63501           Website:   www.hilgart.org