Import and create references from PDF's

You may import and create a reference from a PDF. Endnote uses the DOI (Digital Object Identifier) number in the PDF to extract bibliographic information from the article and create a reference. The program also attaches the PDF file to the reference.

Go to:

File → Import → File

If you want to import a folder of PDF's:

File → Import → Folder

If the PDF does not contain a DOI, Endnote will create a blank reference containing only the file name of the PDF file in the title field. The PDF will be attached to this blank reference.

If no bibliographic information is added, we suggest adding a DOI number in the corresponding field or a PMID (Pubmed ID) in the Accession Number field in the reference. Next, right click on the reference the select Find Reference Updates and the bibliographic information will be imported.

You can also use the PDF Auto Renaming Options, which automatically renames your PDF files to a more convenient name. And by using the& PDF Auto Import Folder, Endnote will automatically watch a folder on your computer for PDF's and import them. Go to → Edit → Preferences → PDF Handling.

Editor: University Library Web Team

Last updated: 2021-06-15