Zotero: Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting

Because Zotero is open-source software, many users have created various plugins to enhance the software that are free to use. These plugins can improve the interface, provide new visualization tools, integrate with LaTex/BibTex, and more!

Step 1: Update Zotero

Upgrade Zotero if you aren't running the latest version, as your issue may have already been resolved in the most recent release. You can see the version you're running by selecting About Zotero from the Zotero menu (Mac) or Help menu (Windows/Linux).

Step 2: Check the troubleshooting pages

If something in Zotero appears to not be working correctly, check the Known Issues, Frequently Asked Questions, and Knowledge Base. The following dedicated troubleshooting pages may also be helpful:

• Issues installing Zotero
• Issues with Zotero data (e.g., library missing, restoring from a backup)
• Issues saving from websites
• Issues with word processor plugins
• Issues with file handling (e.g., PDFs opening in the wrong application)
• Issues with data syncing
• Issues with file syncing

Step 3: Post to the forums

If you can't find the answer to your question in the documentation, post a message to the Zotero forums. Both Zotero developers and community members offer support through the forums.

If you're new to the Zotero Forums, please read the forum guidelines and bug reporting procedures before posting.

Note: You need to create a Zotero account and log in to the Zotero website to post messages in the Zotero Forums.