Software setup - norrissam/ra-manual GitHub Wiki

Below are links to installing and setting up the software we will commonly use (whether you are on a PC or a Mac), along with links to useful software manuals:

Software installs

GitHub

We use GitHub for task management and software version control. Send your GitHub username to the group member in charge of setting up the GitHub repository, so that you can be added. If you have not used GitHub before, join GitHub and also either install GitHub desktop or install Git (Git for Windows here).

Resources for learning git and GitHub workflow:

• Primer on version control systems and command line Git
• Configuring Git; Git shortcuts
• GitHub cheat sheet
• 10-minute GitHub guide
• Practical GitHub guide
• Mastering markdown

Slack

We use Slack for: (1) brief communications and questions that can be easily resolved without creating a formal GitHub issue; and (2) recording meeting notes. Download desktop and mobile apps for Slack.

• Beginner Slack guide
• Working in Slack
• Slack Posts

Dropbox

Data is stored in Dropbox. You should have a paid account.

Latex

We write papers in latex. You will need a latex compiler from MikTex as well as a text editor that integrates with MikTex. TeXstudio and WinEdt are two options, among others, you might consider.

Stata

When possible, data analysis will be done in Stata. A university license may be available, or you can order Stata directly.

• UNC Population Center
• A Little Bit of Stata Programming Goes a Long Way
• An Introduction to Modern Econometrics Using Stata, hard copy

Python

Python is a flexible programming language with many uses. We use it principally for scraping and parsing.

• Install Python 2.
• Software Carpentry
• Dive into Python