Mendeley

Reference Collection and Organization

Capture PDFs and references from browsers and databases, then normalize titles, authors, and DOIs for clean records. Folders, tags, and smart filters sort reading by topic or deadline so you can find the right paper fast. De-duplication merges repeats without losing notes, and file renaming keeps local storage predictable for backup and sharing. RIS and BibTeX imports preserve provenance, DOI lookups fill gaps, and custom labels surface deadlines without resorting folders.

PDF Reading and Annotation

Read and mark up PDFs with highlights, notes, and callouts. Annotations remain linked to the exact passage, and a sidebar collects them into a scannable summary for later drafting. Full-text search jumps to key lines across your library, and exported notes preserve context if you draft elsewhere. Split-pane views compare versions while you annotate, page-linked notes export with citations, and highlight digests keep location and context for fast literature matrix assembly.

Citations and Bibliographies

Insert formatted citations and auto-build bibliographies in popular styles. Switch journals in seconds without manual reformatting, preserving italics, punctuation, and ordering rules. Manual fields handle edge cases like preprints or datasets, and style previews confirm results before you submit. Favorite journals switch among numeric, author-date, and footnote families instantly, while frequently updated CSL styles handle datasets, posters, and preregistration references cleanly.

Collaboration and Shared Libraries

Create private groups to share references and PDFs with co-authors; comments capture decisions on which studies to include. Roles protect sensitive projects while enabling teammates to contribute effectively. Change history records who added or edited entries, and activity views surface fresh papers that deserve attention. Threads document inclusion rationales, mentions nudge owners to act, and public lists onboard new teammates without exposing restricted materials.

Sync, Backup, and Cross-Device Access

Keep libraries consistent across devices with encrypted sync. Offline reading caches files so flights or fieldwork don’t stall progress, and conflicts resolve transparently. Attachment limits and storage views keep usage in check, and export options ensure long-term portability between tools. Selective sync trims large files on small devices, device lists audit access, and restore options protect against accidental deletions across laptops and phones securely.