There are a number of reference manager programs that are useful for creating libraries, whether for a single manuscript or for a personal database. One of the most commonly used programs is EndNote, which is available to all UI staff, students, and faculty through Information Technology Services. The EndNote Output Styles library contains over 7,000 journal and publisher reference styles.

  • Be aware that downloaded EndNote journal styles may be outdated and no longer conform to instructions:
    EndNote may format references in this style:
    Norman, P.E., Powell, J.T. (2014) Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease. Circ Res. 114(2): 379-393.
    But this is the format given in the journal’s instructions:
    Norman PE, Powell JT. Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease. Circ Res 2014;114:379-93.
    Notice the differences in use of punctuation, italicized test, inclusion of issue number, page number format
  • For “your paper your way” or “format-free” initial submissions, it’s best to use the journal style; otherwise, ensure that whatever style is used, it is used consistently
  • Provide reference numbering in the text according to journal instructions, or again, consistently; e.g., all reference numerals are in parentheses/brackets or superscripted
    • Reference numerals in parentheses/brackets are placed before a period at the end of a sentence and other mid-sentence punctuation; superscripted reference numerals are placed after punctuation
  • Citation numerals should always be placed at the end of the first sentence that refers to a cited source
  • Contact Kris Greiner for help with references or EndNote