Referencing tools and software
Referencing Tools & Software
Digital tools to help you collect, organize, cite, and format your references correctly.
Referencing tools streamline academic writing by helping you manage sources, insert citations, and generate accurate reference lists — saving time and reducing errors.
BUV Library Search Citation Tool
All search results in BUV Library Search (powered by OCLC WorldCat Discovery) include a “Cite” button to generate instant citations.
- Click the “Cite” icon next to any result (in list or detailed view).
- Choose your citation style (e.g., Harvard – Cite Them Right).
- Copy a citation or export to EndNote, RefWorks, or RIS formats.
Citation Generators in BUV Databases
Many of BUV’s academic databases include built-in citation tools. Use them during research to save time!
ProQuest
On any article page, click the “Cite” link → Choose Harvard or APA → Copy citation.
EBSCOhost (e.g., Business Source Complete)
Click the “Cite” icon → Select Harvard or APA → Copy formatted citation.
Euromonitor International
On a report page, click “Share” → Go to “Citation” tab → View Harvard/APA citation.
Other Referencing Tools
You can also use these popular tools to manage your research and citations:
Zotero
A free, open-source reference manager that works as a browser extension and desktop app.
- Save references from websites, databases, and library catalogs with one click.
- Integrates with Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice.
- Supports thousands of citation styles including Harvard (Cite Them Right), APA, Chicago, and IEEE.
- Sync across devices and collaborate in shared research groups.
Mendeley
A free reference manager and academic network developed by Elsevier.
- Organize PDFs, annotate documents, and create citations.
- Desktop, web, and mobile apps for seamless access.
- Integrates with Word and LibreOffice for in-text citations and bibliographies.
- Create private or public groups to share research.
JabRef
An open-source reference manager using BibTeX format — ideal for LaTeX users.
- Manage references for technical and scientific writing.
- Search databases, group entries, and auto-generate BibTeX keys.
- Integrates with LaTeX editors like Overleaf and TeXShop.
- Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
EndNote
A powerful reference management tool by Clarivate Analytics.
EndNote Desktop (Paid):
- Advanced features: full-text search, PDF annotation, custom libraries.
- Deep integration with Word and over 6,000 citation styles.
EndNote Basic (Free):
- Cloud-based with basic citation and bibliography support.
- Limited storage and fewer styles than desktop version.
RefWorks
A cloud-based reference manager accessible from any device.
- Import references from databases, catalogs, and websites.
- Organize into folders, tag, and annotate documents.
- Insert citations into Word and Google Docs.
- Collaborate by sharing folders with controlled permissions.
Available via institutional subscription. Check with your library.
➜ Staffordshire Harvard Guide
➜ Stirling Referencing Guide