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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 EndNote with LaTeX

Adding the BibTeX option to your output styles

  1. In EndNote, click on the Tools option located in the navigation bar
  2. Select Output Styles and find Open Style Manager
  3. From the list of styles tick BibTeX Export and exit the EndNote Styles Manager
  4. The BibTeX Export will now appear among export options

Screenshot illustrating steps 1 -4 on how to add BibTeX output style to Endnote

Exporting references in BibTeX format

  1. Open your EndNote library and select the references you want to export as a .bib file
  2. In the navigation bar go to Tools and and ensure that the BibTeX Export is selected
  3. Then click on the Export Arrow (EndNote export Arrow) or go to File menu and select Export 
  4. In the Export options window, choose the following:
    • select the directory where you want your file to be saved
    • under File name: add a name for your file followed by .bib (name.bib)
    • under Save as type: keep TextFile(*.txt)
    • Output style: BibTeX Export 
  5. Click Save to generate the file

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


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 EndNote

The unique keys generated by EndNote are not user-friendly when compared to those generated by Zotero or RefWorks. You may want to update each key with memorable information to make those searchable e.g. author / date / title. 

An example of a .bib file generated using EndNote.

  1. In EndNote, click on the Edit option located in the navigation bar
  2. Select the Import option and select File
  3. When the Import File pop-up window appears select the following:
    • click on the Choose... button and locate your .bib file 
    • select BibTeX as Import Option 
    • click the Import button to proceed
  4. Once uploaded, records will display under Imported References folder

Screenshot illustrating steps 1 - 3 on how to import .bib file to EndNote