Build your bibliography, one source at a time

Generate references from verified source details

A reference helps a reader identify and locate a source. Start by choosing the correct source type, then enter the author, title and publication information from the original book, article or webpage. The generator formats those details using Citation Style Language rules rather than a single generic punctuation template.

You can add websites, books and journal articles, choose a referencing style, and build a bibliography with corresponding in-text citations. Edit or remove individual entries as your research changes. Copying preserves formatting where your browser and destination support it; the HTML download also retains italics and hanging indents.

APA, MLA, Harvard and Chicago styles

Different styles place names, dates and publication details in different positions. APA 7 and Chicago author-date use author–date citations. MLA uses an author-based system, often with a page locator when you refer to a specific passage. Harvard has many institutional variants; this generator uses the Cite Them Right style, which may differ from your university’s guide.

The displayed in-text citation identifies the source but does not add a page number for a quotation. Add the correct page or other locator when required. Verify title capitalisation, missing information and unusual sources against your course guidance.

Enter authors and publication dates carefully

For a person, enter given and family names in the separate fields. Use Add another author to include co-authors in the order shown on the source. For an organisation, choose Organisation and enter its full name. Do not invent an author or date when a source does not provide one. Leave the relevant fields empty and check the resulting no-author or no-date format.

Use the original publication date rather than the day you found the source. An access date is a separate field and is included only when the selected style calls for it. A DOI is a persistent identifier for a scholarly item; confirm it against the publisher record before adding it.

Keep a copy of your bibliography

Your source list is saved on this browser only. It does not synchronise with your student account or another device. Clearing browser data can remove the list, so download a copy before doing so. Your source details are not sent to MyBib or an external metadata service.

For authoritative examples, consult APA’s reference examples, the MLA Style Center, and your institution’s referencing handbook.