Why does Zotero check and modify citations? Can I turn it off?

liampb

I use MHRA 3rd edn style to write history. I need to add page numbers and comments after importing a citation. When Zotero modifies the references it removes the page numbers. Why? Once I've modified a reference I don't want it changed. How do I stop Zotero going through a document to check imputted references? This is unnecessary.

adamsmith

You should add page numbers and comments using the locator field and prefix/suffix. Zotero needs to update references so that it formats them correctly in MHRA style, e.g. shortening subsequent references.
edit: meant to include the link to instructions: https://www.zotero.org/support/word_processor_plugin_usage

That said, it shouldn't overwrite any changes you make manually without previously warning you; are you saying that's the case?

liampb

Thanks for your answer, Adam. I wasn't aware you needed to add the page numbers in this way. I've worked out how to do that, but not how to add comments. I'll read further on the suffixes and prefixes. It does give a warning, but when I click 'Yes' to prevent changes, it sometimes removes the page number I added (manually) and other times not. But obviously I shouldn't have been adding page numbers manually! I'll read more and see if I can get the comments working. Thanks for your help!

bwiernik

Comments you should add in the prefix and suffix fields (underneath the page number field) and not manually, as well.