Unit 2: Adding References

Create a Reference for an Uploaded File

You can upload PDF files to RefWorks, which will attempt to generate a reference based on file metadata.

RefWorks will also save uploaded documents so you can access them later. RefWorks can store up to 100GB of documents for you to access later. Please bear in mind individual documents cannot exceed 20MB in size. RefWorks also has a built-in document viewer where you can read and annotate uploaded documents. For more information on this, please see the page on managing files within RefWorks.

'Upload document' option

Before you begin this process, first navigate to the folder you wish to upload your reference to. Next:

  • Click the 'Add' (+) icon from the toolbar above your folder's title.
  • Select 'Upload document'. This should open your device's file directory. Navigate to the file's location and select it for upload.
  • Finally, click 'Save' to proceed to the RefWorks Import Screen.
Select the upload document option

Click and drag files

This option is quickest if you are using a PC or laptop.

To begin, in RefWorks navigate to the folder you wish to upload your reference to.

  • In a new window, open your device's files and navigate to the folder your PDF or other file resides in.
  • Click and hold on the file (or files) you wish to upload and drag from the current folder to the one in your RefWorks window. Hold it in the middle of the page and you should see a large, blue circular icon appear that reads 'Drop files here'.
  • Release your mouse button to start the upload. See 'File upload process' below for further information.
Drag and drop files

File upload process

Once either of the above processes are complete, RefWorks will begin to upload a file and generate a reference based on its metadata.

RefWorks will attempt to create as accurate a reference as possible. It will try to identify the reference type of the file (e.g. Journal article, Book chapter) and populate relevant fields (e.g. authors, title, year, etc.). Please note this process is not always perfect and often requires you to make some changes. See our guidance on editing references for further tips.

Screenshot of the file upload progress

Once the upload process is complete, the file will be available to view within RefWorks. See our guidance on managing files within RefWorks for further tips.

Screenshot of the added reference with the file attached

Viewing and annotating files

For more information on viewing and annotating files, please see our page on managing files within RefWorks.