WisPaper
Scholar Search
Download
Pricing
WebApp
Home > FAQ > How to import literature from different sources in Zotero?

How to import literature from different sources in Zotero?

October 30, 2025
research efficiencysemantic search for papersintelligent research assistantAI academic searchefficient paper screening
Zotero facilitates straightforward importation of literature references from diverse sources into its centralized library. This process is primarily achieved using its browser connector, while alternative methods handle file formats or manual entry. The most efficient method utilizes the Zotero Connector browser extension, capturing metadata directly from publisher websites, databases, and catalogs with a single click. Reference Manager (RIS) or BibTeX files exported from databases can be imported via "File > Import." Identifiers like DOIs, PubMed IDs, or ISBNs enable direct import via the magic wand ("Add Item by Identifier") feature. Finally, references can be manually entered, and supplementary files like PDFs can be attached. Ensuring the correct browser extension is installed and enabled, plus verifying retrieved metadata for accuracy, are crucial best practices. To implement, install the Zotero Connector in your web browser(s). Locate the bibliographic item online and click the connector icon in the browser toolbar to instantly save its metadata to your selected Zotero library folder. Import RIS/BibTeX files via the "File > Import" menu. Use the "Add Item by Identifier" button for DOI/PMID/ISBN input. For manual entry, select "New Item" and choose the relevant type. Consistently attach associated PDFs through right-click options. This streamlines citation gathering, enabling centralized management and subsequent citation in writing workflows.
How to import literature from different sources in Zotero?
PreviousHow does Mendeley help me organize and manage literature?
NextHow to organize citations of conference and journal articles through Zotero?
WisPaper
Screen 1,000 papers in just 5 minutes pinpoint the 20 that really matter
Your Scholar Search Agent | Read Less Get More