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MLA Citation Guide (MLA 9th Edition): Citation Software

Citation Software Defined

Citation tools can go by many names: citation software, citation managers, citation generators, reference management software, bibliographic management tools, etc. While the name may vary, they do have some common elements including the main function of collecting and organizing citations. Most of these software packages also allow for the creation of works cited or references lists in a variety of formats and styles. The ability to integrate with word processing software is a key feature of many of the more popular citation software.

What are citation generators?

Citation generators are tools that automatically create citations for your research materials.

What are citation managers?

Citation managers not only generate citations automatically, but also helps you collect, organize, store and often share your research materials.

Are citation software products free?

A multitude of citation software exists including free and paid options. RefWorks and EndNote are popular retail citation software in use at colleges and universities. Some popular free software include Zotero and Mendeley. Note, while these latter are free, they do offer additional features and/or storage for a fee. . 

Are the citations created by citation software accurate?

As these tools are becoming more popular it is important to note that they have limitations and should not be used in isolation. Basler Library strongly recommends that all citations should be checked for accuracy using either the MLA or APA citation format.

Citation Software Products

Please be aware that automatically generated citations may not provide accurate results. If you choose to use a citation software product, take the time to make the necessary corrections using the appropriate citation guides. Remember: It is your responsibility to double-check the results!

Citation Generators

Here are a selection of popular free and paid citation generators

PLEASE NOTE: No citation generator is perfect.  You MUST check citations from them against a known format, such as the NeSCC Citation Guides. 

Database Cite Tools (ProQuest, EBSCO, etc.)

Example: ProQuest databases

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Citation Managers

 Here are a selection of popular free and paid citation management software products.

Free Fee-based

Zotero Logo

 

Quick Start Guide

RefWorks Logo

Features

Tutorials

Mendeley Logo

Features

Tutorials

Endnote Logo

Features

Training

 

Getting Help - The Writing Center

The Writing Center [TWC] is located on the first floor of the Library in room L101. Writing center staff will be available to help with your essays, research, and more.  

At the Writing Center, they can help with any writing assignment for any class at any stage in the process. That means they can help you:

  • brainstorm a topic
  • refine your thesis
  • organize a rough draft
  • practice paraphrasing or incorporating source material
  • understand a citation style like MLA, APA, or Turabian
  • revise your work before final submission

Schedule an Appointment

Inside the Writing Center, several tables with chairs facing each other