Citation Software

There are three steps to installing Zotero.

Step one

Download Zotero for Windows or Mac and follow the prompts for installation. You can stop here; however, taking the next two steps will ensure an easier referencing experience.

Once the file has downloaded to your computer (check your downloads folder), double click on the program and follow the installation wizard prompts.

Step two

Get the Zotero Connector for your browser.

The Zotero Connector (plug-in extension) allows you to collect references from databases and webpages with a single click. Connectors are available for Firefox, Chrome, Edge, and Safari.   

Step three

Create a Zotero online account.

An account will allow you to: 

• back up your library in the cloud
• sync and access your library from multiple devices
• share and network with other Zotero users.

There are two ways to create a Zotero online account:

1. Open Zotero. Go to Edit ⇨ Preferences ⇨ Sync ⇨ Create account. You will need to validate the account via your email address.
2. Register for an account first, then go to Zotero ⇨ Edit ⇨ Preferences ⇨ Sync. Sign in with your credentials.  

What's the benefit of having t Zotero online?

Zotero Online is a good option if:

• You work on many different computers, and need a portable library of citations.

• It allows you to save citations directly from your browser.

Having just the Zotero Application is a good option if:

• You prefer to use your citation manager in a separate window, rather than in your web browser.

• You want to insert citations into Microsoft Word documents.

• You have a rather large library of citations, and want to utilize the additional organizational features that the desktop application provides.

• The Zotero tab will automatically appear in Microsoft Word.

​You can both install Zotero 7 and use Zotero online. Make sure to use the "sync" button in the upper right of the online version and Zotero Standalone and sign in so that your citations sync between them.