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BibTeX field type: type

The type field in a BibTeX entry is utilized to indicate the specific type or category of a publication. This field can be particularly useful when you are referencing reports, theses, or other documents that have more detailed categorizations. Indicating the specific type can provide the reader with more context about the nature of the document you are referencing.

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Commonly used in conjunction with entries like @techreport or @thesis, it helps to denote a more specific sub-type of the publication, such as a “Research Note”, “Government Report”, “Master’s Thesis”, “PhD Dissertation”, and so forth. This field can help in distinguishing the document from others of a similar category.

When using the type field, it is advisable to use a descriptive and standardized terminology that aligns with the norms of the field or discipline you are working in. This promotes clarity and helps the reader in understanding the exact nature of the referenced document.

Example

Here is an example demonstrating how to use the type field in a technical report entry:

@techreport{key,
type={Research Note},
}

In this example, the type field is populated with the descriptor “Research Note”, indicating that the technical report is a note detailing some research findings.

By utilizing the type field effectively, you can provide more detailed information about the documents you are referencing, facilitating a deeper understanding and smoother navigation of your bibliography for the reader.