How to insert the correct citation format in Mendeley and Word?

Mendeley and Microsoft Word can be integrated to enable consistent, automated citation insertion and bibliography generation. This process efficiently ensures correct formatting according to academic styles. Successful integration requires installing the Mendeley Desktop application, creating a Mendeley account, and installing the Mendeley Cite plugin for Word. Users must ensure their Mendeley library is populated with correctly formatted references. Crucially, they must consistently select and apply the desired citation style (e.g., APA, Chicago) within the Mendeley plugin in Word before inserting citations or generating the bibliography. Regularly synchronizing the Mendeley library and Word document helps maintain accuracy. Within Word, navigate to the Mendeley Cite tab. Use the 'Insert or Edit Citation' button to search for and select the relevant reference(s) from your Mendeley library. The plugin automatically inserts the citation in-text using the designated style. Insert a 'Bibliography' at the document end using the dedicated button, which compiles all cited references. Finally, remember to update fields if references are modified. This workflow minimizes manual formatting errors and saves significant time in academic writing.