How to Cite a PDF in BibTeX (standard)
Learn how to cite PDF documents and reports in BibTeX format (standard). This guide includes the reference list format, in-text citation examples, and key formatting rules.
BibTeX Reference List Format
Here is the standard BibTeX format for citing a pdf in your reference list:
BibTeX Example for a PDF
A complete BibTeX reference for a pdf, formatted by the official BibTeX CSL style definition — the same engine that powers the generator on this site:
@techreport{Open2023Annual, address = {Geneva}, author = {{Open Scholarship Council}}, year = {2023}, institution = {Open Scholarship Council}, title = {Annual review of open scholarship}, url = {https://www.example.org/reports/2023.pdf}, }
Step-by-Step Guide
- Gather source information: Collect the author name, title, publication date, and URL or DOI for your pdf.
- Format the reference: Arrange the elements following the BibTeX (standard) template shown above.
- Create the in-text citation: Add a parenthetical or narrative citation in your paper where you reference this source.
- Add to your reference list: Include the full formatted citation at the end of your paper.
- Double-check formatting: Verify italics, punctuation, capitalization, and hanging indents match BibTeX requirements.
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