Interdisciplinary Engineering

Citation managers such as Zotero and Paperpile are programs that allow the users to collect, organize, and cite sources. They also allow for collaboration and some provide the ability to store and annotate PDFs within the system.

Why should you use a citation manager?

• Organize sources using folders, tags, and even group libraries for collaboration with people across the world.

• Many have browser extensions or integration with library software to make it easy to collect items when you research so you don't forget about the paper you saw 10 pages ago.

• Many integrate with Google Docs and/or Microsoft Word to make it easy to cite sources while writing.

What is Paperpile?

Paperpile is a web-based reference citation management system, with emphasis on integration with Google apps and Google Chrome.

Getting Started

1. Navigate your browser to the website: paperpile.com. Click either the "Start Paperpile" or "Start Trial" icons. Login with your SJSU email address.
2. Next, go to Settings > Account info and click on "Activate site license." This will switch your account from a limited trial to being part of the library's institutional subscription.
3. Enter your SJSU email address, then click the activation link you will receive via email. Now your account is part of the library's subscription and will not expire in 30 days.

Installing the Chrome Extension

When starting Paperpile, it will prompt you to install the browser extension that helps save citations to your library. If the pop-up does not show up, click here to install the extension.

The American Psychological Association (APA) created the citation style you will be using for all of your research papers. You can buy the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association, 7th edition from Bookshop.org or check the sites below for advice.