Reference Management Tools

Assignment Inflection

For projects that will require keeping track of a lot of sources, reference management tools can be very helpful.  We recommend Zotero because it is a well-developed, free, open-source tool that students will continue to have access to even after graduation.

Steps

Introduce students to one or more of the bibliographic management tools available to them.  For example:

  • ZoteroBib is an easy to use citation generator which might be all students working on smaller projects need.  It helps you build a bibliography without requiring an account or any software installation.
  • Zotero is a sophisticated tool that helps collect, organize, annotate, cite, and share research.  It may be more than what many undergrads require.  Despite its learning curve, it is great for grad students to know about.
  • NoodleTools: This tool is currently available because the library subscribes on behalf of our users.  It has a wide range of functionality appropriate for undergraduate users.  Please note: students will only have access to the free version of NoodleTools after they leave PSU.

Considerations

  • Many other reference tools exist, and you or your students may already be users of other tools and that’s fine. No one needs the hassle of changing to a new tool if they already have one they are comfortable with. 
  • Make sure students are aware that some of the most well known reference managers like RefWorks and EndNote have free trial periods but then require monthly or annual fees to continue using.  Mendeley offers a “freemium” version of their product with limited storage and sharing options that may be suitable for students, but access to the full range of features requires an ongoing subscription.
  • If you or your students are interested in learning more about Zotero, contact a librarian to schedule an individual consultation or set up a classroom demo.

Resources