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Citation Formatters

Need to cite'm fast? Get a head start with a citation formatter!

Citation formatters, also called builders, generators or managers, create citations for your list of references.

Three basic types:

  1. Formatter integrated into database;
  2. Database exports data into formatter;
  3. Independent formatter; data must be entered manually.

What they do:

  • Format basic citations

What they don't do:

  • Correct errors in data entry
  • Add elements required for more complex citations, such as, series title, number of volumes in a set, etc.
  • Adjust for special requirements from your instructor
  • Guarantee accurate results

What you do:

  • Always review results to check for formatting, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, required elements, etc. for the citation style you are using
  • Add elements required for more complex citations
  • Adjust for special requirements from your instructor
  • Refer to the style manual for the definitive answer to your citation questions

Ready to try one? Access some from the Citation Formatters webpage now.

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For assistance, contact a reference librarian at (262) 472-1032, by email or chat or in person at the Library's Reference Desk.

Last Revised: MS - 8/3/2007