The Library

RefWorks and the Libraries

What is RefWorks?

  • Web-based tool to manage all of your research references
  • Instantly creates and formats bibliographies for you
  • A personal database you can organize by folders and share with others

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How do I Get to RefWorks?

  • From UCSD Libraries' homepage, under the Research Tools tab, click on Databases A-Z, click on R and scroll down to RefWorks
  • Or start directly from the RefWorks homepage  http://www.refworks.com/refworks
  • Sign-up for individual account
  • If off-campus, be sure to first set-up the proxy or vpn
  • You can also get to RefWorks from within various Databases by not all

Overview of RefWorks Functions


  • References: Add New (manually), Import (text files or from EndNote)
  • View: Folder(s), All References, RefWorks Shared Area
  • Search: search your RefWorks account, or search databases/catalogs from within RefWorks (not as many search features as searching the original database)
  • Bibliography: Select Output Style, Format an Existing Word Document, Format (and Create) a Bibliography from references in your RefWorks account/folders
  • Tools: Write-N-Cite download & instructions, Ref Grabit
  • Help: links to the tutorial and help manual

Using RefWorks with Databases and Catalogs

  • Within your RefWorks account, click the UC-eLinks button to get the full-text of a journal article online or see if you the UCSD Libraries own the item in print
  • Export vs. Import
    • Export is when you are within a specific database that has the ability to send references directly into RefWorks with one or two clicks (you'll see RefWorks graphic)
      1. You can send references individually into RefWorks by clicking on the UC-eLinks button and then clicking "Download Record into RefWorks Direct Export Tool"
      2. Or, you can Export by marking several items' check boxes, or all, and then clicking on the RefWorks button
    • Import is when a database like Roger (UCSD catalog), doesn't let you directly export references. Instead, you have to save your references as a text file on your computer and then go into RefWorks and Import the text files/references into your account
  • Key Import Filters (in RefWorks) that you'll use with specific databases:
    • Roger (UCSD Catalog) - Innovative Interfaces(EndNote/RefWorks), Import Filter/Data source & EndNote/RefWorks Database
    • PubMed - NLM PubMed, Import Filter/Data Source & PubMed Database
  • For addition and specific Import/Export Instructions see RefWorks & EndNote Support

Need Help or More Info?

RefWorks & EndNote Support