Start with the principle
What you need to know
A valid-looking DOI is not enough. It must resolve to the same author, title and publication represented in your reference.
A practical method
Check it step by step
- 01
Open the DOI
Use the https://doi.org/ form and confirm that it resolves.
- 02
Compare the title
Minor punctuation differences may occur, but the work itself must be the same.
- 03
Compare authors and year
Check author order and the publication year used by your required style.
- 04
Check publication details
Verify journal, volume, issue, pages or publisher where applicable.
- 05
Correct from the source
Do not replace an entry automatically unless you have confirmed the match.
Apply the guidance
Examples
https://doi.org/10.1234/jlp.2025.018
DOI resolves to the same title, authors and journal as the reference.
Before submission
Final checklist
- DOI resolves
- Title matches
- Authors and order match
- Year is appropriate
- Journal or publisher matches
Course, university and publisher requirements vary. Confirm final punctuation, capitalisation and presentation against the guide you have been instructed to use.