RIS File

What are RIS files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a RIS file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your RIS files.

What is a RIS file?

Files that contain the .ris file extension are most commonly associated with ASCII text files that are used to exchange publication citation information across multiple platforms and computer applications.

The RIS file format was created by Research Information Systems. Each RIS file contains a series of lines that provides citation information for an associated publication, such as the date of the publication being cited, the keywords, the publisher of the publication, the title, issue number and start and end pages.

The RIS file format is supported by a variety of reference management applications, digital libraries and other software programs that export citation information.

How to open RIS files

Important: Different programs may use files with the RIS file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your RIS file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested seven different RIS openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: January 22, 2025

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of RIS files. Remember, different programs may use RIS files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about RIS file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.