A Citation Management Tool is software that allows you to store and organize citation information (e.g. title, author, publication date, etc.). Most also allow users to create a reference list, bibliography, or work cited page from the citations stored in the management tool and some even assist with in-text citations, creating annotated bibliographies, organizing research, and more. Most tools offer assistance with citing sources in a variety of styles like APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.
Please note that when working with citation management tools it's extremely important that the citation information stored in these tools is correct. For example, if a citation is exported to a citation management tool in all UPPER CASE LETTERS when that citation is output as a source on a reference list it will be listed in all UPPER CASE LETTERS. Typically, that type of detail is NOT corrected by the citation management tool, so users should always double check the citation information that they are entering into or exporting to the citation management tool.
As with any tool, there are benefits and drawbacks to using citation management tools that you should consider:
EndNote is a subscription-based citation management tool that SNHU does not currently provide institutional access to. Support videos are available via the Hoonuit This link opens in a new window database. EndNote Basic This link opens in a new window is a free, limited version of EndNote.
Additional support for Endnote is available online via the Endnote Support website This link opens in a new window.
Mendeley is a free research and reference manager which generates citations and bibliographies. It also allows users to save citations for access from any computer linked to the Internet. Create a free Mendeley account This link opens in a new window or sign in to your Mendeley account This link opens in a new window if you already have one.
More information about Mendeley is available on Mendeley's website This link opens in a new window or visit the Mendeley help guides This link opens in a new window and Mendeley video tutorials This link opens in a new window for more assistance using this product.
Zotero is a free research and reference organizer that helps you collect and organize your research and cite your sources. It also allows users to save citations and bibliographies for access from any computer linked to the Internet. Create a free Zotero account This link opens in a new window or sign in to your Zotero account This link opens in a new window if you already have one.
More information about Zotero is available on the Zotero Website This link opens in a new window or visit the Zotero quick start guide This link opens in a new window and Zotero video tutorials This link opens in a new window for more assistance using this product.
