Zotero

To begin using Zotero, you must download the Zotero software and connector. The Zotero software is where you can store and organize your citations and documents. The connector helps you gather citations and pdfs from various catalogs, databases, and websites. 

1. Go to Zotero.com and click "Downloads".
2. Install the software. Zotero will recognize your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux).
3. Install the connector. Zotero will recognize your browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Edge). Download or follow the instructions for adding the connector to your browser.

Setting up a Zotero account will allow you to sync Zotero across computers and devices, backup for your citations and PDFs, and set up sharing and collaboration features. The UChicago Library provides institutional access to unlimited storage on Zotero to all UChicago users. 

1. Go to and select "Log In"
2. Go to "Register for Your Free Account"
3. Enter your name, email and create a password. For unlimited storage, you must use your UChicago email address. 

Once you create your account, you will need to add your account to your Zotero preferences.

• Open the Zotero software
• Go to Zotero Preferences
  • On Windows, go to File / Preferences
  • On Mac, go to Zotero / Preferences
• Select the "Sync" tab and enter your email / password under "Data Syncing"

You can add citations and bibliographies automatically while writing by using Zotero's plugins, available for Microsoft Word, LibreOffice, and Google Docs. 

Microsoft Word

• The plugin for MS Word is bundled with the installation of your Zotero software and be added automatically.
• If you find that the Zotero toolbar does not display in MS Word, go to Zotero Preferences / Cite / Word Processor Plugin and reinstall.

Google Docs

• Google Docs support is part of the Zotero Connector for Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
• The Zotero menu should appear automatically in the Google Docs menu.

Learn more about Word Processor Integration on Zotero.