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How to Choose: Zotero, Mendeley, or EndNote

A guide comparing the features of Zotero, Mendeley, and Endnote.

Import: Simple

Simple and Unique Methods

  • Zotero: One click in your URL address bar can capture most records.

             Save to Zotero icon, featuring a stylized book and a downward arrow, indicating the action to save references.

 

 

 

  • Mendeley: Drag and drop a PDF file into Mendeley to create a record.

             A mouse cursor clicking-and-dragging a Ulysses PDF into a New Folder in Mendeley, indicated by the grayed-out filename text.

 

 

 

  • EndNote: Some databases provide an EndNote button.

             Two rounded tan buttons with red text for saving documents to "EndNote Web" and "EndNote."

Import: Manual

 

 

 

Manual Methods

After downloading a TXT, RIS, or BIB file for a record, you can import it manually:

  • Zotero

              A mouse cursor highlighting the Import... action in the 'Actions' drop-down menu in Zotero, as indicated by the gray gear icon.

 

 

  • Mendeley

              A mouse cursor highlighting the Add Files... action in the 'File' drop-down menu in Mendeley.

 

 

  • EndNote

               A mouse cursor highlighting the Import... action in the 'File' toolbar in EndNote.