Import References from PubMed and Other Databases into Your Mendeley Library: A Quick Guide

Updated at: 11/06/2025

Managing research references can be overwhelming. This quick guide simplifies the process, showing you how to effortlessly import citations from PubMed and other databases directly into your Mendeley library. Save time and streamline your workflow by learning these simple, yet powerful, import techniques. Boost your research efficiency and focus on what truly matters: your work.

Methods: Drag-and-Drop Method for Importing References

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Search and Select References

    • Perform a search on PubMed (or other database) for your desired references.
    • Select the references you wish to import.
    Select the references you wish to import. Select the references you wish to import.
    Search and Select References

  2. Export References

    • Export the references; choose 'Send to' and select a citation manager option (e.g., Mendeley).
    Export the references; choose 'Send to' and select a citation manager option (e.g., Mendeley).
    Export References

  3. Import via Drag and Drop

    • Locate the downloaded file (e.g., .nbib).
    • Drag and drop the downloaded file into your Mendeley library.
    Drag and drop the downloaded file into your Mendeley library. Drag and drop the downloaded file into your Mendeley library.
    Import via Drag and Drop

  4. Verify Imported References

    • Verify that the references have been imported correctly and check for missing information (like page numbers).
    Verify that the references have been imported correctly and check for missing information (like page numbers).
    Verify Imported References

Tips

  • This method may not work with all citation managers or file types; however, the .nbib file type is explicitly mentioned as working in this example.
  • Always review imported references for completeness; ensure all bibliographic data is accurate.

Methods: Import using Mendeley's Import Function

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Export References

    • Export references from PubMed (or other database) in a compatible format (e.g., RIS, XML, BibTeX).
    Export references from PubMed (or other database) in a compatible format (e.g., RIS, XML, BibTeX).
    Export References

  2. Import References via Mendeley's Import Function

    • In Mendeley, go to 'File' > 'Import'.
    • Locate and select the exported file.
    • Mendeley will import the references.
    Mendeley will import the references. Mendeley will import the references. Mendeley will import the references.
    Import References via Mendeley's Import Function

Tips

  • Ensure the file format is compatible with Mendeley (RIS, XML, BibTeX are mentioned).
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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Search Terms

Reason: Using overly broad or poorly defined search terms in PubMed or other databases results in irrelevant articles being imported into Mendeley, cluttering your library and making it difficult to find what you need.
Solution: Refine your search strategy by using specific keywords, Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT), and appropriate filters (e.g., publication date, article type).

2. Forgetting to Select the Correct Import Option

Reason: Many databases offer various export formats (e.g., RIS, BibTeX, EndNote). Choosing an incompatible format or failing to select the Mendeley option leads to failed imports or incomplete data.
Solution: Always select the 'Mendeley' or a compatible format (e.g., RIS, BibTeX) during the export process from the source database.

FAQs

What if Mendeley doesn't recognize the citation format from my database export?
Mendeley supports many common citation formats (e.g., RIS, BibTeX). If it doesn't automatically recognize your import, try selecting the correct format manually during the import process. If the problem persists, you may need to clean up the exported file by removing extra characters or correcting formatting errors before importing again. In some cases, manually adding the reference might be necessary.