Re: [Bug-gsl] Potential bug for gsl documentation

[Brian Gough]

At Sun, 17 Oct 2010 17:44:19 +0200,
Michael Rockinger wrote:
> it is mentioned that one should link using
> $ gcc -L/usr/local/lib example.o -lgsl -lgslcblas -lm
> my problem is that systematically, gcc tells me that the library -lm
> does not exist :-(.
> 
> After removal of the last 3 letters -lm, everything works !!

That is useful.  I wasn't aware of that, I have never used a Mac.
I've added a note to the manual that -lm is not always needed.

> I think if such a file would have been suggested in the manual, it
> would simply summarize the instructions required to fully compile,
> link and run a program.
> 
> After three days "working" with gls, I have the impression that it is
> great stuff, the idea of gnu is great.
> 
> I believe, however, that many potential users are scared away from the
> lack of unfriendliness of the documentation. Not much is missing to
> make it really a great project.

Thanks for your comments.  I agree that a bit more information may be
needed.  Some time ago I wrote a book about the basic use of GCC which
is more suitable for beginners.  I should probably reference it at
that point, since it covers all these topics.  You may find it useful:

  http://www.network-theory.co.uk/gcc/intro/  (paperback)
  http://www.network-theory.co.uk/docs/gccintro/ (online version)

-- 
best regards

Brian Gough