- Install Zotero (and browser connectors) from zotero.org/download.
- As you research, save sources by clicking on the Save to Zotero icon (looks like a book, sheet of paper, webcam, etc. depending on the source type) in your browser's toolbar or URL bar.
- Organize your sources in Zotero with collections or tags. Edit source information as needed. Take notes if you like.
- Create citations and bibliographies by selecting items, right-clicking, and choosing Create bibliography from items. If you are using a word processor, you may prefer the Microsoft Word (or LibreOffice) Plugin.
- Optionally sync your Zotero library in the cloud by creating a free online Zotero account at zotero.org.
More detailed instructions are offered in the rest of this how-to guide.