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RefWorks

Adding References to RefWorks

There are two ways to add citations into your RefWorks account.  You can import them from online databases, or you can manually add them.

1. Import references from an online database or the library catalog.

Watch a short tutorial (2:51 minutes) on how to import references, or refer to the steps below.

Importing citations is simple from most of the library's subscription databases.  Most have an "export" option along with options to print, email or save citations. Just locate the "Export to RefWorks" button and follow the on screen instructions.

2. Manually enter references.

To add an item to RefWorks, click the Add a reference icon  at the top of the page. To add the item to an existing folder, first click on the folder then click the Add a reference icon .

There are three options:

  • Upload document
  • Import references
  • Create new reference

  • Upload document: You can drag and drop a document (.pdf, .doc, etc.) directly into the Upload document box from your computer.  Only one document can be uploaded at a time. 
  • Import references: Choosing this option lets you import a set of references from a text file in one of the formats offered, by dragging the file onto the page to begin importing.
  • Create new reference: Allows you to manually enter your bibliographic data by keying it in, or you can drag and drop an existing file as well.

Tip:  If you have multiple documents to add to RefWorks, you can select and drag them all at once. RefWorks will create separate items for each.

Regardless of which option you choose, RefWorks uses its document recognition feature to auto-complete the reference fields on the page.  The process is not foolproof.  It is always important to review any bibliographies or in-text citations you create to make sure the information is correct, and correctly formatted.

Add more fields: This drop down box at the bottom of the page lets you change the reference type, edit the reference fields, or add additional fields if needed. 

Once you have manually added your item(s) using one of these options, click Save and the item(s) will be added to your RefWorks account.