Skip to Main Content

Cite It Right!

Citation information to be used with the Cite It Right - Got Research? workshops

Writing and Citing: Ask for help, try to explain it yourself, cite every idea that's not yours, use tools to make it easier

Zotero allows you to:

  • Add sources to your library by clicking a browser extension
  • Add sources manually
  • Share a library of sources with others
  • Automatically creates in-text citations when typing in Google Docs or Word
  • Automatically creates a bibliography

Get Started by:

  1. Creating a free Zotero account
  2. Adding the browser extension (use Chrome)
  3. Downloading Zotero to your computer

Citation Generators

Citation Generators - Tools for Creating Citations

How can a citation generator help you?

Citation generators use online forms to create a citation in various formats such as MLA, APA, Chicago, and more.  You (the researcher) type your bibliographic data into the form and the site generates a citation in the format requested.  It will also correctly sort and alphabetize your list when you collect and store more then one citation.

Some citation generators display the citation on the screen, but don't save the citation. Other sites offer citation management services, such as saving your citations, organizing your paper, notecards, and outline, and also may help to organize and understand citation building as you perform your research.

Remember - you are always responsible for the accuracy of your citations.  Citation generators are convenient to use, but may not always be 100% accurate.  Also remember that the citation and the Works Cited/References list you create is only as accurate as the data you input! ("garbage in, garbage out")

Please don't hesitate to ask one of the Oakton librarians if you need help with citing your sources.

  • EasyBib allows you to make quick citations in all popular citation styles and manage and save them online.  Please be aware that Oakton's subscription to EasyBib which provides free citations in MLA, APA, and Chicago Style will end on July 15, 2018.
  • NoodleTools is a full featured citation and research tool that can help you through the citation process step by step.  It can also help you create and manage an outline and/or notecards for your paper, and can help you share your sources with other users.  Visit our NoodleTools help page here.
  • KnightCite and Citation Machine are free online tools that can help you make a quick citation when needed.  You also get some extra features when you register and create an account with KnightCite.