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RefWorks Guide

Getting Started with RefWorks:

Questions about RefWorks? Contact a Reference Librarian at (203) 254-4000 ext. 2178 or reference@mail.fairfield.edu.

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What is RefWorks and why should I use it?

RefWorks is citation manager software that keeps track of the sources you are using for your research and your own notes about them.

RefWorks is internet-accessible (http://www.refworks.com/refworks), and allows everyone in the Fairfield University community a free, private account. You will be asked to register the first time you use it.

You can organize your notes, and compile your bibliography and footnotes, easily, correctly, from anywhere. References can be imported from the library catalog and from database searches, or entered manually one-by-one. The references can then be formatted for bibliographies in many style formats (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago Manual of Style, etc.).

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What are the main features of RefWorks?

  • RefWorks allows you to import references from the Library Catalog and many electronic databases. You can conveniently compile a list of sources and save the list online.
  • RefWorks will help you produce a bibliography using the bibliographic style required by your discipline.
  • The Write-N-Cite feature, for Windows users, allows you to insert footnotes from your RefWorks database as you are writing your paper. Mac users can use insert footnotes while writing by using the One Line/Cite View feature.
  • RefWorks lets you annotate citations for an annotated bibliography.

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Why is bibliographic or citation style important?

  • Proper citation style presents your documentation in a consistent and standard format and provides your reader with the information necessary for them to consult your sources.
  • Different departments, or disciplines, use different publication style formats. Your professor will advise you on their preferred style format to use for your research paper or thesis.
  • Many examples of citation style guides are available to check out or consult in the Library. A list of style guides can be found online at Citation and Style Guides.