A DOI - digital object identifier - is a standard method of referring to online publications, often articles. DOIs are persistent references that will always point to a particular resource, even if the publisher's web address has changed.
Step-by-step example of creating a stable link from a DOI:
Example of a DOI:
10.1177/0042085910377290
A DOI needs a prefix in order to work as a link:
https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0042085910377290
The proxy prefix is then added to the DOI link, allowing EMU users to access library subscribed resources, and creating the final, stable link. You can use the EMU Proxy Link Generator to create the final link, for example:
http://ezproxy.emich.edu/login?url=https://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0042085910377290
DOI stands for Digital Object Identifier. DOIs are used to identify electronic articles and function much like the ISBNs that you are used to for textbooks.
Unlike a web address, the DOI for an article never changes. APA Style recommends that you include a DOI when available.
Where do I find a DOI?
The DOI is often printed on the first page of journal articles--sometimes at the top of the page and sometimes at the bottom. You will recognize it, because it usually is preceded by doi: and the number always starts with 10.
Some articles will not have a DOI, especially non-scholarly articles or older articles.