What is an Annotated Bibliography?
Why make an annotated bibliography?
Creating an annotated bibliographyinvolvesgatheringthe most importantsources of information about one's topic. These sources can be used lateras evidence to support an argument or analysisof a larger research project, like a research essay.
What is an annotated bibliography?
An annotated bibliographyisa list of high-quality sourcesthat you have found about your topic. The listcontainssources such asbooks, articles, and documents that you have found about your research topic.
- Each source is cited using a citation style(for example MLA, APA, Chicago, etc).
- Each cited sourcein the list isfollowed by a brief "annotation"(usually about 150 words) that is adescriptive and evaluative paragraph.
- Write annotations with your audience in mind; remember, the purpose of the annotation is partlyto inform the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of the sources cited. Another purpose is to remind the researcher (you) how you might use the source to support your thesis in a larger, related research project.
Annotations are not abstracts
- An abstract simply summarizes ordescribesa source.
- An annotation is a paragraph of textthat summarizes asourcebut goes a step further to critically evaluatethe source'scontent by discussing its scope, relevance, strengths and/or weaknesses.
The process in a few easy steps
Creating an annotated bibliography calls for the application of a variety of intellectual skills: concise exposition, succinct analysis, and informed library research.
- Understand the rules that your instructor has provided.
- Locate and record citations to books, periodicals, and documents that may contain useful information and ideas on your topic. Briefly examine and review the actual items. Then choose those works that provide a variety of perspectives on your topic.
- Cite the book, article, or document using the appropriate style.
- Write a concise annotation that summarizes the central theme and scope of the book or article. Include one or more sentences that (a) evaluate the authority or background of the author (see below), (b) comment on the intended audience, (c) compare or contrast this work with another you have cited, or (d) explain how this work illuminates your bibliography topic.
Critically evaluating books, articles, or other types of information
For guidance in critically appraising and analyzing the sources for your bibliography, seeHow to Critically Evaluate Information. For information on an author's background and views, ask at the reference desk for help finding appropriate biographical and book review sources.
Citation Styles and Examples of Annotated Bibliographies
Choosing the correct citation style
Check with your instructor to find out which style is preferred for your class. Online citation guides for both the Modern Language Association (MLA) and the American Psychological Association (APA) styles are linked from the Library'sCitation Management page.
How to write annotated bibliographies tutorials provided by UMGC:
SU Libraries Thanks
This guide was adapted by SU Libraries with permission fromResearch & Learning Services, Olin Library, Cornell University Library, Ithaca, NY, USA. Thanks library folks!
