A reference management software helps you manage your references throughout the research process from information searching, writing, formatting to publishing.
A reference management software will help you to
import references from various databases into one place
keep track of your references
create references and a reference list in your Word document
adapt the layout of the references in accordance with different citing systems or journal requirements
create publication lists.
Zotero, EndNote, Mendeley and Refworks are common software for managing references. Some software is free to use, while others require a license.
The library provides support in Zotero to university staff and students.
Employees have access to EndNote for free
As a university employee, you have access to EndNote. Contact the ITS Servicedesk if you need support.
What is EndNote?
EndNote is a piece of software that you install on your computer. The software helps you keep track of your references in a searchable personal library that you can share with your colleagues, among others.
In the library's open online course, you will learn the basics of Zotero and how to install and use it. If you need more help with Zotero, you can book a tutoring session with a librarian.
Zotero is a free to use software that is suitable for both students and researchers. By creating an account, you can also access your references via a web version of the software. Zotero is available for Windows, Mac and Linux. The installation includes the most common reference styles, but more are available to download from the Zotero website.
For Zotero to work in Word, you need to download Word on your computer. As a student or employee at Umeå University, you have access to Microsoft 365, which includes Word.
Umeå University Library has its own versions of the Harvard and Oxford reference styles. You can download and install Zotero citation styles for both these versions here:
Are you up to speed on references? Find tips on guides and features that simplify your reference management.
Questions about writing references?
Do you have questions about how to write a reference list or cite sources? Visit our drop-in sessions or schedule a tutoring appointment if you need help from a librarian. You can also submit short questions via chat and the contact form or ask the staff at the information desk.
