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University Library Services

Reference Management Software

A beginners guide to using reference management software

About this guide

This guide introduces the reference management tools available to you at the University of Sunderland and provides clear step-by-step guidance for beginners in using the software. If you're already familiar with these tools and need advanced help, check out the Further help section.

 

 

 

Important note about using referencing software:

Reference management software is a helpful tool for managing your references, but it's important you always review the references it creates. These tools are not a replacement for knowing how to reference. Use Cite Them Right (link below) to check the references are accurate.

If you have any questions about referencing or using Cite Them Right you can visit one of the Study Skills Drop-Ins or take a look at the Referencing Library Guide in the "Is this the right guide right for you?" section below.

Is this the right guide for you?

The links below offer some other options for help and support with referencing. Cite Them Right is a website dedicated to referencing and will take you through step-by step how and when to reference. Our Referencing guide, created by our study support team, so gives you help and advice on referencing.

What is Reference Management Software?

Reference management software helps you collect, organise, cite, and share research sources. It can automatically format your citations and reference lists in various styles.

Here's a more detailed look at its functions and benefits:

  • Collect references: Import references from databases, websites, and library catalogues.
  • Insert Citations: Integrates with Microsoft Word to insert citations into your documents as you write.
  • Generate reference lists: Automatically creates and formats reference lists in various citation styles (e.g. Harvard and Vancouver).
  • Collaborate: Share your references and work together on group projects.
  • Sync Across Devices: Access your references from multiple devices.
  • Organise References: You can add tags and notes to your references, so you can organise them by topic or project, for example.

Why use reference management software?

Reference Management Software helps you keep all your research materials in one place, automatically generate citations and reference lists, and access your references across devices

This guide helps you explore reference management tools, decide if they’re right for you, and choose the best one for your needs.

Which software does the university support?

At the University of Sunderland you can access two reference management tools:

  • Zotero
  • EndNote Online

 

Comparison of different software options

This chart highlights the key features of the tools available for free to University of Sunderland students and staff. Click on the menu to the left to learn more about how to use each program.

 

  Zotero EndNote Online
Accessibility/ Storage Accessible on the web via a browser or as a free downloadable program.  Accessible on the web via a browser.
Collaboration Collaboration is possible with group libraries where members can add and edit references. Limited collaboration features, mainly focused on individual use rather than group projects.
Cost Free standard version. (Paid-for upgrades available) Free version available to everyone, and enhanced online versions available via the university's subscription to the Web of Science database.
Ease of use Easy to moderate. User-friendly interface, good for beginners. Easy to moderate.
Import citations from databases Yes Yes
Automatically create citation from PDF Yes No
Attach PDFs Yes Yes
Annotate PDFs Yes No
Sharing options Yes Yes
Word processor compatibility Microsoft Word, Open Office, Google Docs (does not work with Word Online) Microsoft Word (does not work with Word Online)
Major citation styles Yes Yes
Is support / help available? Library Service offers support for Zotero.
Good external support via website and YouTube videos.
Library Service offers support for EndNote Online.
Support on external websites and videos for EndNote Online is limited.