Zotero 101: How to use Zotero referencing software - blog feature image

Zotero 101: How to use Zotero referencing software

Zotero is a free, open-source reference management software program that helps you collect, organize, cite, and share your research sources. It is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. 

How to use Zotero referencing software – Step-By-step Guide

1. Download and install Zotero:

  • Go to the Zotero website (https://www.zotero.org/download/) and download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  • Install Zotero by following the on-screen instructions.

2. Install the Zotero browser connector:

  • The Zotero browser connector allows you to save web pages, articles, and other online resources directly to your Zotero library. 
  • Install the Zotero Connector for your preferred browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Safari).
  • Go to the Zotero website and click on the “Connectors” tab.
  • Select your web browser and click on the “Install Connector” button.
How to use Zotero referencing software - Step-By-step Guide - Chrome extension

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Zotero browser connector

3. Create a Zotero account (optional):

  • While not strictly necessary, a Zotero account allows you to sync your Zotero library across multiple computers and access it from anywhere.
  • Go to the Zotero website and click on the “Sign Up” button.
  • Enter your email address and choose a password.

4. Set Zotero preferences:

  • Open the Zotero preferences window.
  • Click on the “General” tab and set your preferred language and citation style.
  • If you created a Zotero account, you can set up syncing to ensure that your library is accessible from multiple devices.Open the Zotero desktop application, go to “Edit” -> “Preferences” -> “Sync,” and enter your Zotero account information.

5. Start adding sources to your Zotero library:

  • You can add sources to your Zotero library in a number of ways, including:
    • Manually entering the bibliographic information.
    • Importing a file (e.g., a BibTeX file).
    • Saving a web page or article using the Zotero browser connector.
    • Dragging and dropping files into the Zotero window.

6. Organize your library:

  • You can organize your sources in Zotero using collections, tags, and notes.
  • Collections: Collections are folders that you can use to group related sources together. Create collections to organize your references into groups. Right-click on the left sidebar in Zotero and select “New Collection.” Drag and drop references into the appropriate collections.
  • Tags: Tags are keywords that you can use to describe your sources.
  • Notes: Notes are where you can write down your thoughts and ideas about a source.

7. Add PDFs and Attachments:

Attach PDFs or other files to your references for easy access. Drag and drop files onto the reference in Zotero or use the “Attach” button.

8. Cite While You Write:

Zotero integrates with word processors like Microsoft Word and Google Docs.

Use the Zotero toolbar to insert citations and generate bibliographies in your documents.

9. Generate Bibliographies:

Zotero can automatically generate bibliographies in various citation styles.

Select the items you want to include, right-click, and choose “Create Bibliography.” Copy and paste the generated bibliography into your document.

10. Explore Advanced Features:

Zotero has many advanced features, such as tagging, notes, and the ability to capture snapshots of web pages.

Explore these features based on your research needs.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:

I hope this guide helps you get started with using Zotero. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment or schedule an online appointment to get help with using Zotero. 

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