Citing Your Sources
Why is it important to cite sources? First, it gives credit to the person who created the idea. Second, it allows your readers to locate the sources you used, so they can read or judge for themselves.
How do I cite my sources? Citation managers are time-saving tools designed to help you cite while you write. This page provides information on these tools, and resources to help you get started. You'll also need to determine the citation style required for your work. If you are writing a paper or assignment, consult your instructor about the proper style used in your discipline. If you are writing for a publication, check the author guidelines on a publisher's web page for the required style.
BibTeX and LaTeX
LaTeX is open source software that allows you to create professionally-rendered files that incorporate mathematical symbols, equations and formulas, which can be difficult to do with standard word processors such as Microsoft Word. BibTeX is an add-on to LaTeX that helps you manage your references. The following resources will help you to get started using these tools:
- Webinar: Citation Management with BibTeXIn this 40-minute training webinar, learn why and when to use BibTeX, how BibTeX files work, and how to cite your sources and share references using BibTeX.
- How do I get started using BibTeX?This 20-minute Bite Size webinar includes an overview of why and why to use BibTex, the basics of how BibTeX files work, and a live demo of how to add references and cite sources using Overleaf.
- OverleafOverleaf is a free online authoring tool for LaTeX and BibTeX. You can set up a free account and access helpful how-to guides.
- Learn LaTeX in 30 minutesA concise, hands-on overview to help you get started with LaTeX.
- Bibliography Management in LaTeXThis Overleaf guide is a great starting point for learning how to build your bibliography, including the basics of BiblaTeX, the latest version of BibTeX.
- Bibliography Styles GuideExamples and code for common citation styles used in LaTeX.
What are Citation Managers?
Citation managers are great tools for organizing your references and producing beautifully formatted bibliographies. Below are some commonly used tools supported at Northeastern.
Follow these links to learn more and get the software:
Choose a Tool