Citation managers make it easy to store and organize your citations. Features to look for include:
| RefWorks | Zotero | Mendeley | |
| Pros |
Free for SMU Access continues post-graduation Unlimited storage Easiest interface Drag and drop functionality PDF annotation Easy to add citations from library databases |
Free Can collaborate across institutions Drag and drop functionality One click to save citation and PDF Allows for extensive note taking Frequently used in the humanities |
Free Can collaborate across institutions Drag and drop functionality Built-in notebook PDF annotation |
| Cons |
Limited offline features Not useful for collaborative projects with those without access |
Limited free storage (300 MB) No professional customer service (Zotero Forums offers support) Known accessibility issues for screen reader users |
Limited free storage (2GB) Multiple steps to import references |
|
RefWorks |
Zotero |
Mendeley |
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
How does it work? |
Web-based |
Desktop application which links to Chrome, Safari, or Firefox extensions Backup & sync via web-based account |
Web-based Desktop-availability |
| What citation styles are available? | List of Citation Styles | List of Citation Styles | List of Citation Styles |
|
Can I share files? |
Yes | Yes | Yes |
|
Can I grab citations from PDF uploads? |
Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Can I work offline? | Only with Microsoft Word plugin | Yes | Yes |
| Can I export citations from library databases? | Yes, direct export | Yes, download RIS/BiBTeX file and then upload to your account | Yes, download RIS/BiBTeX file and then upload to your account |
|
What word processors does it integrate with?
|
Google Docs Microsoft Word |
Google Docs LibreOffice Microsoft Word |
Microsoft Word LibreOffice |
| Can I grab citations from webpages? | Yes, bookmarklet that can be added to browser favorites bar | Yes, with extension for Chrome, Safari, or Firefox | Yes |