LaTeX Footnotes - How to Add Footnotes and Citations in LaTeX

The simplest way to add a footnote in LaTeX is by using the \footnote command. This places a superscript number at the point of insertion and adds the footnote text at the bottom of the page.

This is a sample sentence with a footnote.\footnote{This is the footnote text.}

When compiled, the above code will display a superscript number linked to the footnote at the bottom of the page.

Footnotes for Citations

In disciplines like history or humanities, citations often appear in footnotes. This can be done directly using \footnote, but for larger documents, it is better to automate the process with bibliography packages like biblatex.

Direct Footnote Citations

Example of manually adding a citation in a footnote:

Einstein introduced the theory of relativity.\footnote{Albert Einstein, \textit{Relativity: The Special and the General Theory} (New York: Crown, 1961), 55.}

Using BibLaTeX for Automated Footnote Citations

To automate footnotes for citations, use BibLaTeX and configure it for footnote-style output. This ensures consistency and saves time.

\usepackage[style=verbose-note]{biblatex}
\addbibresource{references.bib}
Einstein introduced relativity.\cite{einstein1920}

@book{einstein1920,
  author = {Albert Einstein},
  title = {Relativity: The Special and the General Theory},
  year = {1961},
  publisher = {Crown}
}

Configuring BibLaTeX for Footnotes

If you want all citations to appear as footnotes by default, configure BibLaTeX like this:

\usepackage[backend=biber, style=verbose-trad2]{biblatex}
\addbibresource{references.bib}

When to Use Footnotes (Style Guide Tips)

Different academic style guides offer varying advice on footnotes. Here’s a brief overview:

• Chicago (Notes and Bibliography): Prefers footnotes for citations, especially in humanities.
• APA (7th Edition): Uses inline citations. Footnotes are rarely used, except for extra commentary.
• MLA (9th Edition): Primarily uses inline citations. Footnotes are allowed but discouraged for basic references.

Best Practices for Footnotes

• Keep It Concise: Footnotes should be brief and to the point.
• Avoid Overuse: Too many footnotes can distract the reader. Use them only when necessary.
• Consistent Formatting: Stick to one format throughout the document.

Managing Footnote Spacing

• Adjusting Spacing: Use \\setlength{\\skip\\footins}{12pt} to increase the space between footnotes.
• Suppress Footnotes Temporarily: Disable footnotes with \\renewcommand{\\thefootnote}\\footnotetext{}.
• Restart Footnote Numbering: Reset with \\setcounter{footnote}{0} for each chapter or section.