How do I install CTAN packages on Mac OS with TexShop?

Question

I run TexShop on my Mac OS 10.6.

I'd like to install new packages like this: http://www.ctan.org/tex-archive/macros/latex/contrib/listings/

How do I install it? I've downloaded the zip file.

Answer 1

I will assume you are using MacTeX (The Mac specific distribution of TeXLive)

Before answering your question, the listings package you mention is part of the TeXLive distribution. You don't actually have to install it, it is already there. Just include the line

\usepackage{listings}

in your preamble.

If you have to install a package, there are two quick ways to install a package.

1- For packages found on CTAN : use the TeX Live Utility found in the /Applications/TeX folder. This application can keep all of the TeX packages up to date.

or

2- Place the relevant files in ~/Library/texmf/tex/latex. TeX will find them.

I hope this helps.