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EndNote desktop: FAQs and tips

Automatic importing of PDFs

Preferences dialog showing PDF automatic import folder setting under PDF handling section

Another option in EndNote is to automatically import PDFs from a specific folder that you select. Whenever you download or copy a PDF file into this folder, EndNote will attempt to automatically import it and create a reference.

1. Create the download folder to use if it doesn't already exist

2. Click EditPreferences

3. Select the PDF Handling section on the left

4. Click in the Enable automatic importing checkbox

5. Click on Select Folder and browse to and select the folder to use

6. Click OK to save

Automatic renaming of imported PDFs: What's in a name ...?

Preferences dialog showing PDF automatic rename setting under PDF handling section

 To automatically rename imported PDFs with a more identifiable name (e.g. Smith2016.pdf instead of a download name of 4321dxtrn6789.pdf).

1. Click EditPreferences

2. Select the PDF handling section on the left

3. Select the pattern that will determine how your PDF files are renamed

4. Click OK to save

Note: imported PDFs will also be listed in EndNote in a temporary group called Imported References.