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BibTeX for LaTeX

This guide provides a brief overview of managing references in LaTeX using BibTeX. Follow the instructions to integrate BibTeX into your LaTeX documents, allowing you to cite sources and generate bibliographies.

Using Zotero with LaTeX

You can export a BibTeX file from both the desktop and online versions of Zotero. However, the desktop app offers more control over your .bib file (e.g. excluding notes).

  1. In Zotero, navigate to the desired folder and select your references 
  2. From the menu bar, click File and select Export Library from the drop-down menu 
    (In the online version, click Export from the menu directly above the reference list)
  3. In the Export window, choose BibTeX as the format. Ensure that the Export Notes option is unchecked
  4. Click OK to generate the BibTeX file. You will be prompted to select the location to save your file.

Screenshot illustrating steps 1 -4 on how to export .bib file from Zotero.
 

Save the generated file in the same folder as your LaTeX document.

If you are using Overleaf, click on the Upload button, then select the .bib file to add. You can rename it at any point, but ensure that the file is saved with extension .bib.

 

Example: BibTeX file generated with ZoteroAn example of a .bib file generated using Zotero Reference Management Software.

 

You can add references from your existing BibTeX file into your Zotero account. Similar to exporting, the desktop version offers greater control over import options.

  1. Open Zotero desktop app, go to the menu bar, click File and select Import from the drop-down menu
    (In the online version, click on the Add (+) button and select Upload file)
  2. Find your saved .bib file on your computer and hit Next to see Import options 
  3. You can decide to create a new collection or add items to My Library, once ready hit Next to import the entries
  4. Click Finish to close the Import pop-up window

Don't forget to review the newly imported collection to ensure all references have been added correctly.

Screenshot illustrating steps 1 -4 on how to import .bib file to Zotero.

 

The Zotero Integration feature is available to Imperial students and staff as part of the Overleaf Professional subscription. Ensure that your Overleaf account is linked to your Imperial email.

Overleaf's integration with Zotero allows you to import references from MyLibrary or Group Libraries but does not allow you to select specific folders or projects. 

  1. Make sure that your Zotero Desktop account is synced with a Zotero online account (see Syncing Zotero accounts)
  2. Open Overleaf, go to Account Settings and scroll down to Zotero Integration
  3. Click the Link to Zotero button and, when prompted, log in to your Zotero online account
  4. You will be asked to create a New Private Key. Zotero automatically suggests the Key Description phrase 'overleaf'. Click Accept Defaults to carry on and you will be redirected back to Overleaf.
  5.  Zotero Integration setting should now display as linked

Screenshot illustrating steps 1 - 4 on how to integrate Zotero with Overleaft.

6. To unlink the applications, click Unlink Zotero

Screenshot illustrating Step 6: how to unlink Zotero from Overleaf.

To find out more about linking our Zotero account and importing your references into an Overleaf project visit Overleaf guide How to link your Overleaf account to Mendeley and Zotero.