bib-validate

Cross-reference LaTeX citation keys against .bib files and \bibitem entries.

127|22|Updated Feb 20, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/flonat/claude-research --skill bib-validate-flonat
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: bib-validate
Source: https://github.com/flonat/claude-research/tree/main/skills/bib-validate
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/flonat/claude-research --skill bib-validate-flonat

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Bibliography validation is time-consuming and error-prone; this Skill detects missing, unused, and typo'd citation keys and surfaces metadata issues that cause LaTeX compilation errors or bibliographic drift.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Cross-references citation keys in .tex files against external .bib files and embedded \bibitem entries to find missing and unused keys.
  • Performs quality checks on external .bib entries (required fields, year sanity, author formatting) and optionally verifies DOIs and preprint staleness via MCP tools.
  • Integrates Zotero cross-checks (refpile MCP) and supports deep verification mode that spawns parallel agents for large bibliographies; ideal for pre-submission checks and post-import audits.

Quick Start

Run bib-validate on your project path or a specific .tex file to generate a categorized bibliography validation report.

Frequently Asked Questions about bib-validate

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I check for missing or unused citation keys in a LaTeX project?

Cross-reference citation keys in .tex files against external .bib files and embedded \bibitem entries to find missing, unused, and typo'd keys. This generates a categorized report with severity levels to prevent compilation errors.

What is bibliography validation and how does it prevent LaTeX compilation errors?

Bibliography validation cross-references .tex files and .bib files to detect missing, unused, and typo'd citation keys. It surfaces metadata issues causing LaTeX compilation errors and bibliographic drift before submission.

Can I verify DOI metadata and preprint staleness in my .bib files?

Yes, you can verify DOI metadata and preprint staleness in .bib files. The validation process performs quality checks on external .bib entries and optionally verifies DOIs and preprint staleness via MCP tools.

Does bibliography validation work with Zotero for citation cross-checks?

Yes, bibliography validation integrates Zotero cross-checks using the refpile MCP. This allows you to synchronize and audit citations directly against your Zotero library during the validation process.

What is the best way to validate a large bibliography before journal submission?

The best way to validate a large bibliography before submission is using a deep verification mode that spawns parallel agents. This efficiently cross-references citation keys and performs quality checks on extensive .bib files.

Why does LaTeX compilation fail when my citation keys match the .bib file?

LaTeX compilation may fail due to metadata issues in .bib entries, such as missing required fields, year sanity errors, or author formatting problems. Bibliography validation performs quality checks to detect these underlying issues.