A citation managers is a tool, usually a browser extension, that can assist you in keeping your research organized. Citation managers can: store references in one place, export citations directly from databases, keep reading notes linked to sources, insert citations directly into Word, and attach files to your references

Citation managers can automatically format bibliographies and citations in styles including MLA, APA, and Chicago Manual of Style. However, you may need to do extra work for Bluebook citations.

Northwestern supports three citation managment tools: Zotero, EndNote, and Mendeley. Northwestern libraries has also developed a guide to help you choose which tool best fits your needs. Northwestern's main library also conducts workshops on citation management systems - see their "How to Choose" guide for upcoming dates.

Citation managers often do not extract metadata from Westlaw or Lexis. Instead, you will need to either manually enter the data or print the resource and import the data from a pdf.

Although citation managers are useful for organizing your research, they will make mistakes in formatting. Always proofread your citations.

Zotero is a free and open-source program that you can download as a browser extension. It is also has a plug-in to use with MS Word. Please see the library's guide to using Zotero for more instructions.

You will need to add the Bluebook style to your Zotero library. Here are the steps to setting Bluebook as your default format.

1. Go to "Settings"

2. Select "Get additional styles" under "Cite"

3. Select "Bluebook law review"

4. Under the "Export" menu, select Bluebook Law Review under Item Format.

Endnote exists as a browser extension and an add-on for MS Word. Northwestern maintains a license to EndNote. Northwestern libraries provide instruction on how to download EndNote with your Net ID. Please see the library's guide to using EndNote for more detailed instructions.

In order to set EndNote to Bluebook format, "Select Another" file from the style menu and select "Bluebook--Law Review."

Mendeley exists as a browser extension and an add-on for MS Word. Please see the library's guide to using Mendeley for more instructions.

Mendeley supports Bluebook. Mendeley's website gives instructions on how to find and edit styles.