If this is your first time hearing about Zotero — don’t worry. This guide is created to walk you through, step by step, so you can start managing your references like a pro. No stress. Just follow along.
Step 1: Download Zotero
Head over to the official Zotero website and download the desktop app. Choose the version that suits your device (Mac or Windows).
Tip: Don’t forget to install the browser connector while you’re at it. It helps you save articles with just one click.
Step 2: Install Zotero Connector
Once installed, your browser will show a small icon (usually a book or page). That’s your Zotero Connector — your new best friend for collecting citations online.
Step 3: Register and Sync Across Devices
Create a free Zotero account. This allows you to access your library from any device. Super useful if you’re using both a laptop and desktop, like me.
After registration, log in through the Zotero app: Preferences > Sync
Step 4: Start Building Your Library
Start saving journal articles, web pages, or PDFs. Create folders by topic or assignment. Add notes. Tag your resources. This is your academic memory bank — make it yours.
Step 5: Insert Citations in Word
Zotero will automatically connect to Word (or LibreOffice). You’ll see a Zotero tab in your toolbar. Use it to:
- Add citations as you write
- Generate a bibliography in one click
Bonus: You can switch between citation styles (APA, IEEE, etc.) anytime.
Bonus: Highlight + Extract Notes (ZotFile plugin)
If you like reading and highlighting your PDFs, install the ZotFile plugin. It lets you extract all your highlights into a note — very handy for literature reviews!
Need a quick recap?
- 💻 Download Zotero
- 🔗 Install the browser connector
- 🧠 Sync your library
- 📝 Start writing — and let Zotero handle your references
This guide is part of the AI-Enhanced Referencing Tools series created by Ts Dr Suhailah Mohamed Noor for Prompt Academy. Last updated: 3 June 2025.