Backing up Word Files

It is technically not possible to create automatic backups of Word files with the Citavi Assistant (It is possible with the Citavi Word Add-in). You should therefore use one or more of the following methods to back up your work:

Saving the file under a different name

  1. Select Save files as .
  2. Include the date of last edits in the file name, e.g. 2020-10-28 Stevia as a Sugar Substitute (Thesis).docx. If you use this file naming convention, your files will automatically sort themselves from most to least recent.
  3. Save the file somewhere other than your computer, for example to a trusted cloud service or an external hard drive. This will also ensure that your work is not lost if your hard drive fails or your computer is stolen.

Please note:

This method has the disadvantage that you have to remember on your own to save a backup copy every time you make changes to the file. Otherwise you may find that you are left without a backup just when one is most needed. For this reason, we do not recommend this approach as your only backup method.

Creating Automatic Backups in Word

  1. Select Save files as .
  2. Switch to the Advanced tab.
  3. In the Save section, enable the option Always create backup copy.

Whenever you close a Word file and save changes made to it, Word will save a WBK file. This is a copy of the most recent previous version of the file before saving the current changes.

Please note:

A disadvantage of this backup method is that it does not allow you to choose where the WBK file is saved. It will always be saved to the same folder as your Word file. For this reason, we do not recommend this approach as your only backup method.

Backups in OneDrive

If you save your Word file to OneDrive, you can use the Version history function if needed to restore older versions of your file. Learn how to use this function here. OneDrive is also suitable for collaboration on a file with your editor or co-authors.

Please note:

Technically, this backup method is the best one outlined here. However, it may not be permissable under your university or company's data protection policy.