RefWorks @ NKU

RefWorks

What is RefWorks?

RefWorks is an online research management, writing and collaboration tool, designed to help researchers easily gather, manage, store and share all types of information, as well as generate citations and bibliographies [Provided in part by the Office of Information Technology].

RefWorks Resources

Preferred RefWorks Browser Settings

  • Turn off all "Pop-Up" blockers, or permit pop-ups from RefWorks
  • If available within your browser, turn on the "Tabs" option

Using RefWorks On-Campus & the Site Security Certificate Alert

The first time RefWorks is accessed on a computer on-campus a Site Security Certificate Alert, stating, "the name on security certificate is invalid or does not match the name of the site" will be triggered. It is safe to proceed. The RefWorks Site Security Certificate is up-to-date and valid.

Using RefWorks On-Campus in Internet Explorer

RefWorks will need to be added as "Trusted Sites" in Internet Explorer.

From the Internet Explorer Menu

  1. Select "Tools"
  2. Select "Internet Options"
  3. Select the "Security" tab
  4. Select the "Trusted Sites" zone
  5. Click on the "Sites" button
  6. In the Trusted Sites window, deselect the option to Require server verification and add the following to your trusted sites list:
  • *.refworks.com
  • *.ebscohost.com

Screenshot of RefWorks page showing how to add http://www.refworks.com to Trusted Sites.

Using Write-N-Cite Off-Campus

  1. Download Write-N-Cite
  2. Install Write-N-Cite
  3. From the Windows Start Menu select Programs and RefWorks
  4. Select the WNC Proxy Configuration Utility
  5. Enter the following Proxy Server URL - http://proxy1.nku.edu/login?url=https://www.refworks.com/Refworks/?WNC=true
  6. Click OK
  7. Launch Write-N-Cite from Word

Screenshot of the Write-N-Cite configuration utility showing the proxy server URL.

Alumni RefWorks Accounts

Off-Campus Alumni RefWorks Access

On-Campus Alumni RefWorks Access

How to Create a New Alumni RefWorks Account

  1. A new Alumni RefWorks Account must be created off-campus, but can be used on- and off-campus thereafter.
  2. Navigate to Alumni RefWorks Login
  3. In the "Remote Access" area, enter the current Alumni Code
    • If you do not know the current Alumni Code, send an email to the Library with your full name, maiden name if appropriate, and date of graduation.
  4. Click the "Go to Login" button.
  5. On the "RefWorks User Login for RefWorks Alumni Site" page, click on the "Sign Up for an Individual Account" link.
  6. Complete the required information making sure to select "Northern Kentucky University" within the "Type of User" drop-down.
  7. Click the "Register" button when finished. You will be brought into your new, empty RefWorks account.

How to Move Your Current RefWorks Account to a New Alumni RefWorks Account in Anticipation of Graduating

  1. Log in to your current RefWorks account.
  2. From either the "Tools" or the "References" menu select "Backup/Restore."
  3. Click on "Perform Backup."
  4. Save the file when prompted. If you are not prompted to save the file, click the link that says "Click here to save your backup file to download the backup to your computer." Do not change the extension of the file.
  5. Log in to your new RefWorks Alumni account.
  6. From either the "Tools" or the "References" menu select "Backup/Restore."
  7. Select the "Restore" option.
  8. Browse for the appropriate back up file.
  9. Click on "Perform Restore."

Alumni should keep their email address information up-to-date. RefWorks may periodically change the Alumni Code, and will distribute the new code via email. Email address information can be updated under "Tools" menu and selecting "Update User Information."