Why & How to Learn EndNote

Step 1: Setup EndNote software
Step 2: Begin an EndNote Library

Step 3: Checking Styles & References

Step 4: Importing references 
Step 4a: Importing from OneSearch
Step 4b: Importing from a Database 

Step 5: Managing your EndNote Library

Step 6: Using Endnote with MS Word
Step 6a: Adding references in Word
Step 6b: Editing references in Word

Optional Learning Path Steps
Organising your references

Working + full-text PDFs 

Other EndNote import methods
 

As your Library grows it is important that references are not duplicated. An easy way to ensure this does not happen is to check for duplicates periodically.

1. From the References menu, select Find Duplicates.
2. Any duplicates will be identified and you will be asked to select which version to delete. You can either:

a) Choose the records to keep one by one:

b) You can click on Cancel to close the individual comparison box. This will generate a list with the duplicates highlighted. Right-click and select Move Reference to Trash.

It is vitally important for you to back up your EndNote library.  A corrupted library could ruin your chances of getting an assignment or dissertation finished. It is recommended that multiple copies be made and these copies are kept in different locations (i.e. on your computer and in cloud storage).

An EndNote library consists of a library file and a folder of Data files. These should all be copied as the Data folder contains figures, groups and other files necessary for the library.

Backing up your Library

1. From the File menu, choose Compressed Library (.enlx).... This backs up both the Library file and associated .data folder.
2. In the following dialog box, select the relevant options. For backing up your library, selecting With File Attachments and All References in Library is recommended.

3. Click Next, and navigate to the folder location. It is advisable to include the date of the backup in the filename

This compressed library can also be placed in any cloud storage, or on a thumb drive to easily move your library around. It will be able to be opened on any computer with EndNote installed (you may download EndNote to up to 3 computers from the EndNote Guide). For backup purposes, it is recommended to save your library in three different locations.

You may also back up your library by using EndNote's File > Save a Copy.  This menu command will copy both parts of your EndNote Library.

Tip

Should you accidentally delete your EndNote Library but still have its .data folder you can recover the Library:

1. Create a blank plain text file (eg using Notepad)
2. Name it using the Library name and give it the .enl file extension (Be sure to change the Save As Type: to All Files)
3. When you open the .enl file with EndNote it will be a copy of the original library