Endnote Review:
based on real mystery shopping

A*Help Score: 67/100
🔥 published May 2, 2024 - updated November 18, 2024

Quick Overview

EndNote is a professional reference management software. Known for its sophisticated features aimed at sourcing and organizing research materials, EndNote is designed particularly for users involved in extensive research projects. The reference finder has a high learning curve for beginner users, but with its extensive functionality for multiple citation formats and seamless integration with word processors, it can become a dependable tool for academic writers.

The Good
  • Can fetch full-text open source articles
  • Supports integration with MS Word and Google Docs
The Bad
  • Requires a downloaded desktop application
  • Lacks a free plan
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A photograph of Endnote's homepage

Endnote: Searching Quality – 39/50 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It’s important to understand that Endnote is primarily a powerful library designed for the multi-functional management of scientific publications and other sources. Its full potential is realized when users have a clear understanding of the sources they wish to use and add them to their personal reference library within Endnote. This can be done through various methods, such as manual entry, online searches, file uploads, or with the help of Endnote Click browser extension.

When conducting online searches with Endnote, users typically need specific information such as the work’s title, author, publisher, or identifiers like DOI, ISBN, or ISSN numbers. The tool also provides many search criteria options beyond these basics. Additionally, it suggests choosing specific databases, university libraries, or library catalogs where the desired source may be available. While some libraries, like Jisk Library Hub Discover, allow keyword searches, not all provide this option.

Therefore, in terms of search quality and source management, Endnote proves highly advantageous for students who have a predefined list of references. In that case, it will be very easy to retrieve them and add them to their library. However, users conducting broad searches to explore materials related to their research topic may find it challenging to navigate Endnote in the initial stages of their work.

A screenshot of libraries at Endnote
Available libraries at Endnote (click to see a large image)
🔍 SEARCH REQUEST 👍 RELEVANT RESULTS 🏆 FEATURES HIGHLY-CITED SOURCES
Climate change effects on Polar bears n/a
Newest data on Mars rover findings n/a

Endnote: Value for money – 10/25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️

EndNote’s pricing structure, while initially appearing high, offers long-term benefits that can significantly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of managing academic research. The software is available in different licensing options: a Full License for new users at $275, an Upgrade License for existing users at $125, and a specially discounted Student License at $150. These are all one-time purchases. Although there is no free version beyond a 30-day trial, this trial period provides a comprehensive opportunity to explore EndNote’s features.

We think that the investment in EndNote could be seen as particularly viable for users who engage regularly in complex research projects requiring accurate source management and citation precision. Moreover, for academic institutions or researchers who can capitalize on student or upgrade discounts, EndNote becomes a more economical choice compared to its competitors. The cost may still be a consideration for casual users or those with minimal research needs; however, for those involved in research-heavy disciplines, the productivity gains from using EndNote could outweigh the initial financial outlay, making it a valuable investment in their scholarly work.

A screenshot of search results at Endnote
Search results at Endnote (click to see a large image)
3/10
Subscription cost
2/5
Free features

Endnote: Overall Experience – 18/25 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Starting with EndNote requires some dedication: installation, registration, and learning how to use its complex interface are part of the initial setup process. This can be intimidating for newcomers unfamiliar with professional-grade reference management tools. However, once users overcome this learning curve, they will find that EndNote’s features greatly enhance their research productivity.

The desktop application, although requiring a download and installation, allows for full performance and stability, handling large databases of references. Users can save and organize their research into personal libraries or customized smart groups, which is useful for different disciplines or managing multiple projects or papers. The tool supports saving, copying, and sharing references via email.

EndNote’s performance is generally reliable, offering quick processing and saving times, although its search functionality can be tedious and confusing unless users know exactly what they are looking for. This can be a significant hindrance when trying to discover new sources without precise initial information.

Despite these challenges, EndNote’s integration with Microsoft Word and Google Docs through the “Cite While You Write” extension is particularly noteworthy. This feature allows citing during writing, which can greatly reduce the friction of integrating citations into academic papers. The lack of an AI assistant might be felt in an era where many digital tools offer such features for better guidance and automation, but the impressive customer support, including training videos and live webinars, helps mitigate this gap.

Overall, while the entry barrier to EndNote might be high due to its professional orientation and setup requirements, its comprehensive features and solid performance make it a great choice for serious researchers and academic professionals.

An image showing reference summary at Endnote
Reference summary at Endnote (click to see a large image)
6/10
User experience
5/5
Speed and efficiency
5/8
Mobile accessibility

Conclusion

With its strong performance in citation management and research organization, EndNote demonstrates  its worth as a powerful tool for researchers. Although the initial financial and time commitment may seem overwhelming, Endnote is a comprehensive solution for individuals who rely heavily on thorough research methodologies. Once learned, it’s a tool that becomes an additional component of the academic toolbox.

FAQ

Endnote Reviews

We explored and tested EndNote’s capabilities, looking at how well it aids researchers, students, and academics in organizing and referencing their scholarly materials. Our review focuses on EndNote’s features, such as its ability to support a wide range of citation styles and its integration with popular word processors for smooth citation management.

Is Endnote a Scam?

No, EndNote is definitely not a scam. It’s a reputable and established reference management software developed by Clarivate Analytics, a recognized leader in academic and research solutions. EndNote is used globally by researchers, librarians, and students to organize references, manage bibliographies, and prepare manuscripts. Its functionality and the support provided by Clarivate ensure that users receive genuine value and reliable performance from the software.

Is Endnote Legit?

Absolutely, EndNote is a legitimate reference management tool widely used in the academic community. It’s developed by Clarivate Analytics, a well-known provider of trusted scientific and research information solutions. EndNote has been a staple in the research world for many years, helping countless researchers, students, and academics efficiently manage their bibliographies and references.

Is Endnote Safe?

Yes, EndNote is safe to use. It’s a software application that adheres to standard data security protocols to protect your information. Users can install and use it with confidence knowing that it is a product from a reputable company in the academic software industry.

Is Endnote Trustworthy?

Definitely, EndNote is trustworthy. It has built a reputation for reliability and functionality across a broad user base in the academic sector. The tool’s longevity and continuous updates contribute to its trustworthiness, ensuring it remains relevant and supportive of current citation practices and technology integrations.

Is Endnote a Good Service?

EndNote is an excellent service for those who have significant research needs. It shines in managing detailed and complex bibliographies, making it ideal for graduate students, researchers, and professors who require a powerful tool to handle their citation needs across various document types. 

Endnote: Specs

> Quality and Variety of Sources
journals
books
conferences
> Comprehensiveness (study types, domains)
access to full texts or abstracts
Relevance (Up-to-Date Information)
> Citation Formatting
MLA
APA
Chicago
Harvard
Other styles
> Subscription Cost / pricing
Free trial period: 30 days

Upgrade License – If you have EndNote 20 (or earlier), upgrade to EndNote 21 today. – $125 (one-time purchase)

Full License – If you’re buying EndNote for the first time, this option is for you – $275

Student License – Verify your EndNote student discount eligibility to receive EndNote at this discounted price. – $150
> User experience
saving
copying
sharing
Integration with Reference Management Tools
search functionality and filtering options
AI assistant
> Support
live chat
blog
FAQ
Guides
Message
Video tutorials




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