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Citation Managers

Pieces that make up Zotero

Zotero desktop programParts of Zotero

  • Available for free download from the Zotero website
  • Works with a variety of operating systems

 

The Zotero Connector

  • Browser-based tool used to add sources to Zotero 
  • Works with different browsers 

 

Word processor plugin

  • Integrates Zotero within Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and other popular programs
  • Included with Zotero desktop download

 

Zotero online account

  • Coordinates sources among multiple devices
  • Facilitates group projects 

Downloading and Installing Zotero

Steps to downloading and installing ZoteroDownload page

  1. Visit http://zotero.org, click Download and follow prompts for your browser and operating system.  Download and install Zotero 5.0 for your operating system (Mac or Windows or Linux) on your computer.  Also install the Zotero Connector for your web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge).
  2. Click Log In (top right of the zotero.org page) to create a free online Zotero account.
  3. Downloading Zotero should automatically install a Word plugin on your word processor program (e.g., Word, Google Docs).  When you open Word, you should see a Zotero tab in the word processor toolbar. If not, in the Zotero desktop program, open Preferences, then go to the Cite tab, click on Word Processors to install plugin.
  4. To set up syncing between your local Zotero library and you online Zotero account, open your local Zotero Preferences, go to the Sync tab, and enter your account information.  You can also choose whether to sync automatically, and whether or not you wish to sync full text PDFs.
  5. Zotero comes with a handful of popular citation styles.  Zotero PreferencesTo add more styles, go to Preferences, pick the Cite tab, and click Styles.  Then click on Get additional styles. Search and select the style you need by reviewing the large list of styles presented.

 

Gathering Sources

Gathering sources

The Zotero Connector enables users to use their browsers to easily add various information resources to Zotero. When you click on the Connector, information about the item you are viewing will be automatically entered into your Zotero library. Note: The icon will be different depending on the type of resource.

You can add citations to your Zotero library in a number of different ways:

  • Add citation information from sources such as databases, library catalogs, and webpages
  • Retrieve citation data associated with browser-viewed PDF files
  • Use Zotero's Save webpage
  • Import citation information from other citation management tools
  • Manually enter citation details