How to Add a Reference to EndNote

An EndNote library makes the process of creating bibliographies fast and easy. To have a useful library, you must add accurate, complete references. Building your library is simple with the following steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• EndNote software

1. Open the EndNote library to which you want to add a new reference. Your default library will open when the EndNote program is started, or you can select a different library by choosing "Open" from the File menu on the toolbar.

2. Go to References on the toolbar and choose "New Reference."

3. Select the type of reference you will be adding from the "Reference Type" drop-down menu. Choices include book, report, journal article, presentation and conference proceedings.

4. Fill in the appropriate fields on the screen, including author, year and title. Include as much information as possible so you can identify the entry later and distinguish it from other entries. The output style will dictate what information appears in the reference list of a document. Not all fields are used in the reference list, so don't be afraid to add extra information that will make future searches easier for you.

5. Close the entry screen (but not the EndNote program) to preview your entry. It should read like a sentence. If you see mistakes, double-click on the entry and make the appropriate edits.

Tips & Warnings

• To check for duplicates before adding a new entry, click on the binoculars (Search Library) on the top toolbar. Enter a keyword to see what related references are already in the library.