A method of encoding video using a plurality of reference pictures is provided. The method includes: writing one of a parameter or a flag into one or more reference pictures of the plurality of reference pictures, creating a first list of reference pictures comprising the plurality of reference pictures sorted based on the parameter or flag, and encoding a current picture of the video using at least the first list of reference pictures. A method of decoding video using a plurality of reference pictures is also provided. The method includes parsing one of a parameter or flag from one or more reference pictures of the plurality of reference pictures, creating a first list of reference pictures comprising the plurality of reference pictures sorted based on the parameter or flag, and decoding a current picture of the video using at least the first list of reference pictures. In addition, there are provided corresponding apparatuses for encoding and decoding video.