1. Create a Collection
Zotero works best if you create a collection. Click the icon of the folder with a plus to create a collection.
- Zotero: Collections and TagsThis page describes how to create a collection as well as organize your sources using tags.
- Zotero: GroupsIf you want to collaborate with someone you will need to set up a Zotero group.
2. Save Sources
After you install the plugin, you can add items to Zotero by clicking on the icon next to your address bar. Depending on the source, the icon will change. You may also need to look under the puzzle piece to find it. Note: You must have Zotero open to save the source. Otherwise it will save to the main level of your Web Library (and the item type may be wrong).
- Zotero: Adding Items to ZoteroThis page shows you how to add all different types of items to Zotero
3. Fix the Metadata
After you add an item to your Zotero library, you need to verify that the information imported correctly. Somethings to look out for are:
- Authors names
- Did Zotero bring in just the names or did it also include a number or email address?
- Do you need to switch the author to a single field?
- Do you need to change the role of the author to editor, director, or another choice?
- Article title: If you plan to use APA, you need to change the entry into title case by right-clicking and selecting the Sentence case option.
- Page numbers (for articles/chapters): Did the start and end page both come in correctly?
- Extraneous information: Sometimes extra information is pulled in and you need to edit it. When in doubt, fix the metadata here and re-export.
4. Create a Bibliography
You can export items from Zotero by right-clicking either the collection or the entry and choosing the appropriate option. By default, Zotero will save your reference list as an .rtf file. Open that file in Microsoft Word and re-save it as a file with the .docx extension.
- Zotero: Creating BibliographiesThis page explains how to create a bibliography (or reference list) in Zotero.
- Zotero: Export SettingsYou can choose the citation style when you export an item.
5. Use Zotero with Microsoft Word or Google Docs
If you're using the Zotero app on your computer or VLAB, Zotero will help you insert in-text citations as you write!
- Zotero: Using Zotero with Microsoft WordThis page will help you learn how to use the Zotero ribbon in Microsoft Word.
- Zotero: Zotero with Google DocsIf you have the Zotero connector installed you'll see a Zotero menu when using Google docs.
- Zotero: Word Processor Plugin TroubleshootingHaving an issue with using Zotero with your word processor? Check out this page.
URL: https://library.brockport.edu/zotero