Citation Tools
Important note: Automatic citation helpers (e.g. RefWorks, EndNote, Zotero, Citation Machine, EasyBib, etc.) must ALL be used carefully. They are usually not 100% accurate. If the data about an article or book is input incorrectly (as it often is), the citation generator does not "know" to fix any errors. Always check your entries against the manual.
Downloadable or web-based citation helpers
Some common examples:
- EndNote is available at no cost for UCO-owned computers or at a small cost for personal computers. Contact UCO Technology Support via the Service Desk Online or call 405-974-2255.
- Zotero is a free download at www.zotero.org
How citation managers work
Most citation managers can automatically import bibliographic data for each of your sources into their program, and the program will usually work together with your word processing program to auto-generate citations within your document. You can also input your citations manually.
Often you can also store the PDFs of your research articles within these programs, so it can be helpful to organize large numbers of references.
Citation helpers in databases
Many databases provide a button or link to generate a citation of an article, in several styles. Look for a link or button that says "Cite" or "Cite this item." These operate on the same principles as above: they are auto-generated and often not 100% accurate. Use them to help start your citation, but you will probably need to make corrections.
Saving citations from Central Search
You can save a Central Search record in EndNote, RefWorks, EasyBib, or other citation managers. Click on a record's title in Central to see the full record, then look for Send and choose your preferred citation manager.
