It is always recommended to use the Zotero Web Connector when importing content into Zotero - see our FAQ on the Zotero web connector for further help. Using the Web Connector allows you to import PDFs, web pages, video, images and other content directly into your reference library from search engines and academic databases with one click.
Where the Web Connector does not work, and where there is no PDF available, you can choose Export > RIS from most academic databases. This will download a .RIS file that you can either drag and drop into your Zotero library, or click File > Import > a BibTex, RIS, Zotero RDF etc. > Next > choose your file. Click Next and your files should import.
The resource records will then be listed in your Zotero library.
Adding to your library manually
This is not recommended as it is very time consuming but may be occasionally necessary.
To manually add an item to your Zotero library:
- Click the green “New Item” button at the top of the centre column, and select the desired item type from the drop-down menu; the complete list of item types can be found under “More”.
- An empty item of the selected item type will now appear in the centre column where you can manually enter the item's bibliographic information in the right column.
Further help
Our reference management pages provide further help and advice.
