\preface{%
	Writing a thesis is no small task, and as a graduate student at the University of Alberta, I quickly realized just how challenging it can be to meet all the formatting requirements while also producing a document that looks professional. 
	Like many others, I started out using traditional word processors, but it didn't take long before I ran into the usual headaches—crashes, file corruption, and formatting issues that seemed to have a mind of their own.

	These frustrations led me to explore \LaTeX\ as an alternative. 
	I discovered that \LaTeX\ not only provided a way to keep my content and formatting separate but also offered a more reliable and consistent way to produce a high-quality thesis. 
	The learning curve was steep, but once I got the hang of it, I found it to be a game-changer.

	The original template document was born out of my experience with \LaTeX\ and the desire to make the thesis-writing process a bit less daunting for others who might be in the same boat. 
	My goal here with this new document is to provide a comprehensive guide that not only walks you through the basics of \LaTeX\ but also gives you practical examples and best practices\footnote{These might not be the ``best'' practices, however, these are practices that I follow to make my work more constant.} to follow.

	I built this template and class from the ground up with the aim of reducing the typical \LaTeX\ learning curve. 
	I have tried to keep it as simple as possible while still making it powerful enough to handle everything you'll need for a thesis. 
	I hope this document makes your life a little easier and that you find \LaTeX\ as useful as I have.

	\textbf{Disclaimer:} This guide provides practical insights and tips for writing a thesis, based on the information available at the time of writing. 
	However, it remains \textit{your responsibility} to verify the accuracy of all content, conclusions, and interpretations. 
	Official university guidelines, requirements, and advice \textit{always} takes precedence over this guide. 
	I assume \textit{no responsibility} for any potential inaccuracies, misrepresentations, or unintended consequences resulting from the use of any material presented in this guide or the supporting documentation and files.
}