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Start with the exact title

Two books can share a title. Add the author or editor before deciding that two listings describe the same work.

Visual context for step 1: Start with the exact title · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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ISBN identifies an edition

An ISBN identifies a particular publication and format. A paperback, hardback, ebook or revised edition may have a different number.

Visual context for step 2: ISBN identifies an edition · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Match all thirteen digits

Do not compare only the last few digits. Copy the complete ISBN and ignore spaces or hyphens only when the source explains the same number.

Visual context for step 3: Match all thirteen digits · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Check language and format

A translation can have its own publisher, translator, pagination and ISBN. Confirm the language and physical or digital format.

Visual context for step 4: Check language and format · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Read the edition statement

Reprint and revised edition are not always the same. Look for edition wording and publication year in the catalogue record.

Visual context for step 5: Read the edition statement · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Publisher matters

The same text may appear from different publishers. Match publisher and imprint when buying a textbook or citing a source.

Visual context for step 6: Publisher matters · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Use a trusted catalogue

Compare the publisher or library catalogue with the seller listing. A cover image alone is not enough evidence of the edition.

Visual context for step 7: Use a trusted catalogue · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram

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Save the number you checked

Keep the complete ISBN with the title, author, edition and format. The full guide explains what the number can and cannot prove.

Visual context for step 8: Save the number you checked · UttaraPedia explanatory diagram
Read the full guide