How do you import and export references from Zotero to other formats and tools?

1 Importing references to Zotero

To import references to Zotero, you can use different methods depending on the source and format of the references. For example, you can drag and drop PDF files, web pages, or library catalog records into your Zotero library, and Zotero will automatically extract the metadata and create citations. You can also use the Zotero Connector browser extension to save references from online databases, journals, or websites. Alternatively, you can import references from other citation managers or formats, such as EndNote, RIS, or BibTeX, by using the File menu and choosing Import.

2 Exporting references from Zotero

To export references from Zotero, you can use the File menu and choose Export Library or Export Selected Items. You can then select the format and options for the export, such as whether to include attachments, notes, or tags. Some of the common formats that Zotero supports are RIS, BibTeX, CSL JSON, and Zotero RDF. You can also export references to a specific citation style, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago, by using the Quick Copy feature or the Zotero plugin for Word or LibreOffice.

3 Using Zotero plugins for Word and LibreOffice

One of the most convenient ways to use Zotero for managing references is to install the Zotero plugin for Word or LibreOffice. This plugin allows you to insert citations and bibliographies directly from your Zotero library into your document. You can also edit, update, or remove citations and bibliographies using the Zotero toolbar in your word processor. To install the plugin, you need to go to the Tools menu in Zotero and choose Add-ons, then find and install the Zotero plugin for your word processor.

4 Using Zotero plugins for other tools

Besides the plugin for Word and LibreOffice, Zotero also offers plugins for other tools that can help you with your research and writing. For example, you can use the Zotero plugin for Google Docs to insert citations and bibliographies from your Zotero library into your Google Docs document. You can also use the Zotero plugin for Chrome or Firefox to create web annotations and highlights using Hypothesis. To find and install these plugins, you can visit the Zotero website and browse the available plugins.

5 Using Zotero with BibTeX and LaTeX

If you prefer to use BibTeX and LaTeX for your academic writing, you can still use Zotero to manage your references. You can export your Zotero library or selected items to a BibTeX file, and then use it as a source for your LaTeX document. You can also use the Better BibTeX plugin for Zotero, which adds features such as automatic citation key generation, pinning and unpinning keys, and integration with Overleaf. To install the Better BibTeX plugin, you need to download it from the GitHub repository and install it manually in Zotero.

6 Troubleshooting common issues

Sometimes you may encounter some issues when importing or exporting references from Zotero to other formats and tools. Here are some tips to solve some of the common problems. If you have trouble importing references from a PDF file, you can try to use a different PDF reader or extract the metadata manually. If you have trouble exporting references to a citation style, you can check if the style is installed and updated in Zotero, or use the Zotero Style Repository to find and install new styles. If you have trouble using the Zotero plugin for Word or LibreOffice, you can check if the plugin is compatible with your word processor version, or reinstall or update the plugin.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?