How do I find the DOI (digital object identifier) for an article or book?
Answer
A DOI or (Digital Object Identifier) is a persistent identifier or handle, used to identify objects uniquely, standardized by the International Organization for Standardization.
This is a fancy way of saying that a DOI is a permanent website typically used for journal articles, and sometimes books, reports, or other media.
You can find the DOI (if it is available) by using the "cite" feature in databases or looking around the page of the actual article or book. If you can't find the DOI, you can look it up on the website CrossRef.org (use the "Search Metadata" option).
Worried about citations? The rule is that it is best practice to include the DOI if it is available, but not to worry about including one if it is not available.