How to Write an Annotated Bibliography - MLA Style

What is an annotation, how is an annotation different from an abstract, what is an annotated bibliography, types of annotated bibliographies, descriptive or informative, analytical or critical, to get started.

An annotation is more than just a brief summary of an article, book, website, or other type of publication. An annotation should give enough information to make a reader decide whether to read the complete work. In other words, if the reader were exploring the same topic as you, is this material useful and if so, why?

While an abstract also summarizes an article, book, website, or other type of publication, it is purely descriptive. Although annotations can be descriptive, they also include distinctive features about an item. Annotations can be evaluative and critical and the two major types of annotations included here demonstrate the difference.

An annotated bibliography is an organized list of sources (like a reference list). It differs from a straightforward bibliography in that each reference is followed by a paragraph length annotation, usually 100–200 words in length.

Depending on the assignment, an annotated bibliography might have different purposes:

  • Provide a literature review on a particular subject
  • Help to formulate a thesis on a subject
  • Demonstrate the research you have performed on a particular subject
  • Provide examples of major sources of information available on a topic
  • Describe items that other researchers may find of interest on a topic

There are two major types of annotated bibliographies:

A descriptive or informative annotated bibliography describes or summarizes a source as does an abstract; it describes why the source is useful for researching a particular topic or question and its distinctive features. In addition, it describes the author's main arguments and conclusions without evaluating what the author says or concludes.

For example:

Gabbin, Joanne V. "Maya Angelou--The Peoples' Poet Laureate: An Introduction."  Langston Hughes Review , vol. 19, Spring 2005, pp. 3-6.  LION: Literature Online , gateway.proquest.com/openurl?ctx_ver=Z39.88-2003&xri:pqil:res_ver=0.2&res_id=xri:lion&rft_id=xri:lion:ft:criticism:R04012678:0&rft.accountid=14580. This scholarly article is a critical introduction to the works of Maya Angelou, and the criteria surrounding her success as a poet laureate. The author points out Angelou's literary influences, which include William Shakespeare, Edgar Allan Poe, Douglas Johnson, Langston Hughes, among others. This article also points out that her poetry lacks cultural boundaries, yet her trademark lies in the secular chants, songs, and games of the black vernacular tradition. The author discusses dialect and vernacular rhythms in several of Angelou's poems, and compares several of her works to the racy dialect of Sterling Brown and Langston Hughes. Also discussed is her political cultural voice and her deep understanding of emotion. This article is distinctive in its discussion of the need for a poet laureate to add to an audience's collective memory.

Please pay attention to the last sentence. While it points out distinctive features about the item it does not analyze the author's conclusions.

An analytical or critical annotation not only summarizes the material, it analyzes what is being said. It examines the strengths and weaknesses of what is presented as well as describing the applicability of the author's conclusions to the research being conducted.

Analytical or critical annotations will most likely be required when writing for a college-level course.

Gabbin, Joanne V. "Maya Angelou--The Peoples' Poet Laureate: An Introduction."  Langston Hughes Review , vol. 19, Spring 2005, pp. 3-6.  LION: Literature Online , gateway.proquest.com/openurl?ctx_ver=Z39.88-2003&xri:pqil:res_ver=0.2&res_id=xri:lion&rft_id=xri:lion:ft:criticism:R04012678:0&rft.accountid=14580. This scholarly article is a critical introduction to the works of Maya Angelou, and the criteria surrounding her success as a poet laureate. The author points out Angelou's literary influences, that include William Shakespeare, Edgar Allan Poe, Douglas Johnson, Langston Hughes, among others. This article also points out that her poetry lacks cultural boundaries, yet her trademark lies in the secular chants, songs, and games of the black vernacular tradition. The author discusses dialect and vernacular rhythms in several of Angelou's poems, and compares several of her works to the racy dialect of Sterling Brown and Langston Hughes. Also discussed is her political cultural voice and her deep understanding of emotion. This article is a good resource for those wanting to explore criteria related to the achievement of the award of poet laureate and how Angelou meets the criteria. This article begins to explore the poet's works and suggests her ability to add to an audience's collective memory. The author is a professor of English at James Madison University and has authored a book on Sterling Brown and numerous critical essays.

Please pay attention to the last three sentences. They give information about the author and critique the author's research.

To write an annotated bibliography here are the steps:

  • Choose your sources -  Before writing your annotated bibliography, you must choose your sources. This involves doing research much like for any other project. Locate records to materials that may apply to your topic.
  • Review the items -  Then review the actual items and choose those that provide a wide variety of perspectives on your topic. Article abstracts are helpful in this process.
  • The purpose of the work
  • A summary of its content
  • Information about the author(s)
  • For what type of audience the work is written
  • Its relevance to the topic
  • Any special or unique features about the material
  • Research methodology
  • The strengths, weaknesses or biases in the material

Annotated bibliographies are arranged alphabetically by the first author's last name.

Please see the  MLA Examples Page  for more information on citing in MLA style.

  • Last Updated: Aug 8, 2023 1:53 PM
  • URL: https://libguides.umgc.edu/annotated-bibliography-mla

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MLA Citation Guide (MLA 9th Edition): Writing an Annotated Bibliography

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Annotations

What is an annotation.

An annotation is a short (100-300 words) summary or critical evaluation of a source. Annotations can help you learn about your topic, develop a thesis statement, decide if a source will be useful for your assignment, and determine if there is enough valid information available to complete your project.

What is an annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations for various books, articles, and other sources. The annotated bibliography looks like a Works Cited page but it also includes an annotation after each source cited. Annotated bibliographies are a great research tool. 

What Goes Into an Annotation?

Most annotations both summarize and evaluate. Be sure to check with your professors to know what they want in annotations. 

A summary describes the source by answering who wrote the document and their overall argument. You don't need to include every part of the argument; just the parts that are most relevant to your topic.

An evaluation  critically assesses the work for accuracy, relevance, and quality. Check for any biases, holes, or particular strengths. Try out this Quick-How-To about  Evaluating Sources  for detailed guidance on assessing a source.

Tip:  Annotations are original descriptions that you create after reading the document. You may find a short summary, often titled "abstract," at the beginning of journal articles. Do not copy the abstract as that would be plagiarism.

Writing an Annotation

Cite the source using MLA style.

Describe the main ideas, arguments, themes, theses, or methodology, and identify the intended audience.

Explain the author’s expertise, point of view, and any bias he/she may have.

Compare to other sources on the same topic that you have also cited to show similarities and differences.

Explain why each source is useful for your research topic and how it relates to your topic.

Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each source.

Identify the observations or conclusions of the author. 

Tips on Writing and Formatting

Each annotation should be one or two paragraphs and between three to six sentences long (about 100- 300 words total).

All lines should be double-spaced (unless your professor has noted a different format).

Do not add an extra line between the citations.

Try to be objective, and give explanations if you state any opinions.

Use the third person (e.g., he, she, the author) instead of the first person (e.g., I, my, me), unless discussing your own research.

Sample Annotation

London, Herbert. “Five Myths of the Television Age.” Television Quarterly , vol. 10, no. 1, Mar. 1982, pp. 81-89.

Herbert London, the Dean of Journalism at New York University and author of several books and articles, explains how television contradicts five commonly believed ideas. He uses specific examples of events seen on television, such as the assassination of John Kennedy, to illustrate his points. His examples have been selected to contradict such truisms as: “seeing is believing”; “a picture is worth a thousand words”; and “satisfaction is its own reward.” London uses logical arguments to support his ideas which are his personal opinion. He does not refer to any previous works on the topic. London’s style and vocabulary would make the article of interest to any reader. The article clearly illustrates London’s points, but does not explore their implications leaving the reader with many unanswered questions.

Adapted from: "How to Write Annotated Bibliographies."  Memorial University Libraries ,  www.library.mun.ca/researchtools/guides/writing/annotated_bibl/ .

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  • What Is an Annotated Bibliography? | Examples & Format

What Is an Annotated Bibliography? | Examples & Format

Published on March 9, 2021 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 23, 2022.

An annotated bibliography is a list of source references that includes a short descriptive text (an annotation) for each source. It may be assigned as part of the research process for a paper , or as an individual assignment to gather and read relevant sources on a topic.

Scribbr’s free Citation Generator allows you to easily create and manage your annotated bibliography in APA or MLA style. To generate a perfectly formatted annotated bibliography, select the source type, fill out the relevant fields, and add your annotation.

An example of an annotated source is shown below:

Annotated source example

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Table of contents

Annotated bibliography format: apa, mla, chicago, how to write an annotated bibliography, descriptive annotation example, evaluative annotation example, reflective annotation example, finding sources for your annotated bibliography, frequently asked questions about annotated bibliographies.

Make sure your annotated bibliography is formatted according to the guidelines of the style guide you’re working with. Three common styles are covered below:

In APA Style , both the reference entry and the annotation should be double-spaced and left-aligned.

The reference entry itself should have a hanging indent . The annotation follows on the next line, and the whole annotation should be indented to match the hanging indent. The first line of any additional paragraphs should be indented an additional time.

APA annotated bibliography

In an MLA style annotated bibliography , the Works Cited entry and the annotation are both double-spaced and left-aligned.

The Works Cited entry has a hanging indent. The annotation itself is indented 1 inch (twice as far as the hanging indent). If there are two or more paragraphs in the annotation, the first line of each paragraph is indented an additional half-inch, but not if there is only one paragraph.

MLA annotated bibliography

Chicago style

In a  Chicago style annotated bibliography , the bibliography entry itself should be single-spaced and feature a hanging indent.

The annotation should be indented, double-spaced, and left-aligned. The first line of any additional paragraphs should be indented an additional time.

Chicago annotated bibliography

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For each source, start by writing (or generating ) a full reference entry that gives the author, title, date, and other information. The annotated bibliography format varies based on the citation style you’re using.

The annotations themselves are usually between 50 and 200 words in length, typically formatted as a single paragraph. This can vary depending on the word count of the assignment, the relative length and importance of different sources, and the number of sources you include.

Consider the instructions you’ve been given or consult your instructor to determine what kind of annotations they’re looking for:

  • Descriptive annotations : When the assignment is just about gathering and summarizing information, focus on the key arguments and methods of each source.
  • Evaluative annotations : When the assignment is about evaluating the sources , you should also assess the validity and effectiveness of these arguments and methods.
  • Reflective annotations : When the assignment is part of a larger research process, you need to consider the relevance and usefulness of the sources to your own research.

These specific terms won’t necessarily be used. The important thing is to understand the purpose of your assignment and pick the approach that matches it best. Interactive examples of the different styles of annotation are shown below.

A descriptive annotation summarizes the approach and arguments of a source in an objective way, without attempting to assess their validity.

In this way, it resembles an abstract , but you should never just copy text from a source’s abstract, as this would be considered plagiarism . You’ll naturally cover similar ground, but you should also consider whether the abstract omits any important points from the full text.

The interactive example shown below describes an article about the relationship between business regulations and CO 2 emissions.

Rieger, A. (2019). Doing business and increasing emissions? An exploratory analysis of the impact of business regulation on CO 2 emissions. Human Ecology Review , 25 (1), 69–86. https://www.jstor.org/stable/26964340

An evaluative annotation also describes the content of a source, but it goes on to evaluate elements like the validity of the source’s arguments and the appropriateness of its methods .

For example, the following annotation describes, and evaluates the effectiveness of, a book about the history of Western philosophy.

Kenny, A. (2010). A new history of Western philosophy: In four parts . Oxford University Press.

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A reflective annotation is similar to an evaluative one, but it focuses on the source’s usefulness or relevance to your own research.

Reflective annotations are often required when the point is to gather sources for a future research project, or to assess how they were used in a project you already completed.

The annotation below assesses the usefulness of a particular article for the author’s own research in the field of media studies.

Manovich, Lev. (2009). The practice of everyday (media) life: From mass consumption to mass cultural production? Critical Inquiry , 35 (2), 319–331. https://www.jstor.org/stable/10.1086/596645

Manovich’s article assesses the shift from a consumption-based media culture (in which media content is produced by a small number of professionals and consumed by a mass audience) to a production-based media culture (in which this mass audience is just as active in producing content as in consuming it). He is skeptical of some of the claims made about this cultural shift; specifically, he argues that the shift towards user-made content must be regarded as more reliant upon commercial media production than it is typically acknowledged to be. However, he regards web 2.0 as an exciting ongoing development for art and media production, citing its innovation and unpredictability.

The article is outdated in certain ways (it dates from 2009, before the launch of Instagram, to give just one example). Nevertheless, its critical engagement with the possibilities opened up for media production by the growth of social media is valuable in a general sense, and its conceptualization of these changes frequently applies just as well to more current social media platforms as it does to Myspace. Conceptually, I intend to draw on this article in my own analysis of the social dynamics of Twitter and Instagram.

Before you can write your annotations, you’ll need to find sources . If the annotated bibliography is part of the research process for a paper, your sources will be those you consult and cite as you prepare the paper. Otherwise, your assignment and your choice of topic will guide you in what kind of sources to look for.

Make sure that you’ve clearly defined your topic , and then consider what keywords are relevant to it, including variants of the terms. Use these keywords to search databases (e.g., Google Scholar ), using Boolean operators to refine your search.

Sources can include journal articles, books, and other source types , depending on the scope of the assignment. Read the abstracts or blurbs of the sources you find to see whether they’re relevant, and try exploring their bibliographies to discover more. If a particular source keeps showing up, it’s probably important.

Once you’ve selected an appropriate range of sources, read through them, taking notes that you can use to build up your annotations. You may even prefer to write your annotations as you go, while each source is fresh in your mind.

An annotated bibliography is an assignment where you collect sources on a specific topic and write an annotation for each source. An annotation is a short text that describes and sometimes evaluates the source.

Any credible sources on your topic can be included in an annotated bibliography . The exact sources you cover will vary depending on the assignment, but you should usually focus on collecting journal articles and scholarly books . When in doubt, utilize the CRAAP test !

Each annotation in an annotated bibliography is usually between 50 and 200 words long. Longer annotations may be divided into paragraphs .

The content of the annotation varies according to your assignment. An annotation can be descriptive, meaning it just describes the source objectively; evaluative, meaning it assesses its usefulness; or reflective, meaning it explains how the source will be used in your own research .

A source annotation in an annotated bibliography fulfills a similar purpose to an abstract : they’re both intended to summarize the approach and key points of a source.

However, an annotation may also evaluate the source , discussing the validity and effectiveness of its arguments. Even if your annotation is purely descriptive , you may have a different perspective on the source from the author and highlight different key points.

You should never just copy text from the abstract for your annotation, as doing so constitutes plagiarism .

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

Caulfield, J. (2022, August 23). What Is an Annotated Bibliography? | Examples & Format. Scribbr. Retrieved July 22, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/citing-sources/annotated-bibliography/

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / Citation Basics / Annotated Bibliography Format & Examples

Annotated Bibliography Format & Examples

A complete guide to the mla & apa annotated bibliography.

If you’ve just received an assignment that requires an MLA or APA annotated bibliography, you may be wondering where to start. This guide will help answer all of your questions and includes step-by-step instructions on how to do an annotated bibliography in MLA style, as well as an APA annotated bibliography. You will also find sample annotated bibliographies, real-life examples, and opportunities to practice what you have learned.

The MLA ( Modern Language Association ) and APA (American Psychological Association) are not associated with this guide. All of the information provided here, however, offers direction for students and researchers who use these citation styles in their work.

The structures and annotated bibliography templates on this page were created by the in-house librarians at EasyBib.com.

If you’re simply looking for an example of an annotated bibliography (both in MLA format and APA format), scroll down toward the bottom of the page. We’ve included links to visuals for those of you who need help with the structure and styling of an annotated bibliography. If you’re looking for a variety of annotated bibliography topics, and you’re truly searching for the answer to, “What is an annotated bibliography?” then continue reading!

Here’s a run-through of everything this page includes:

Table of contents

What is an annotated bibliography, annotations vs. abstract, why include annotations.

  • Step 1: Analyze your sources

Step 2: Write the descriptions

  • Step 3a: Formatting an MLA style annotated bibliography
  • Step 3b: Formatting an APA style annotated bibliography

Annotated Bibliography Templates

Using the easybib annotation tool.

A bibliography is a complete list of the sources that were used to complete a research paper or project.

Depending on the style guide you follow, you may also see this called a Works Cited (also called an MLA bibliography) or Reference List (APA format). Each listed source, or citation , shares information about the author, title, publishing year, and other details that serve to credit the original authors whose work informed your research. These details also help other students and researchers find and read the source materials.

When your research is related to a scholastic assignment, you should always verify your instructor’s requirements for the types and number of sources to include, as well as the style you should adhere to when formatting your paper and bibliography.

An MLA annotated bibliography and an APA format annotated bibliography are bibliographies that include a concise explanation, or annotation , of each listed source. Depending on the assignment, this annotation may be solely descriptive, or analytical.

An abstract and annotation should not be confused; they differ in both their substance as well as their placement in a paper.

Annotations: 

  • Usually found in bibliographies at the end of a paper
  • Are subjective
  • Purpose is to summarize and evaluate . It should briefly communicate the work’s main point, but also discuss the background of the author or study, and the strengths/weaknesses of the work.

Abstracts: 

  • Usually found in journal databases or the beginning of a paper
  • Are objective
  • Purpose is to summarize . It should provide a short overview of the article and communicate the main points and themes.

If you would like to learn more , this link further explores the difference between an abstract and an annotation.

This resource provides additional information on how to write a bibliography with annotations in other formats. You can also take advantage of the plagiarism checker and bibliography tools that come with EasyBib Plus to help you create your reference lists.

Before you learn how to make an annotated bibliography, you may be wondering why you need to.

Sometimes instructors want you to create and include annotations in your bibliography, either as part of an assignment or as an assignment unto itself. Understanding the purpose of this approach to your reference list can help to ensure that you gain all of the benefits that the annotated bibliography process provides.

As a student, this method will help you develop or hone your research skills, providing you with practice not only in locating sources but also in analyzing and evaluating them for relevance and quality.

Your instructor will gain insight into your research abilities, as well, allowing them to assess your work more thoroughly. If you plan to publish your research, this comprehensive approach to detailing your sources will provide readers and other researchers with a substantial directory of resources to evaluate for their own work.

Whether you’re publishing or submitting your annotated bibliography, make sure your spelling and wording is correct! If you need to brush up on any parts of speech topics, check out our interjection , determiner , and adverb pages!

Step 1: Analyze your sources 

Each annotation should be a summarization or analysis of your source. If you have been tasked with writing annotations as part of a research paper or project, begin to create both the citation and notes on the source while you identify and analyze your sources.

Not only will this approach help you to hone your research skills and identify sources that are relevant and useful for your topic, but you will also save time. When done in this manner, both your citations and annotations will be nearly complete before you begin to write the body of your paper.

Analyzing your potential sources requires a two-pronged approach that first evaluates the author, publication, and date, and then examines the content.

When conducting your initial assessment of the source, consider some of the following questions to guide your appraisal:

  • What qualifies the author to write on this subject?
  • Is the author affiliated with a reputable institution in this field?
  • Is the author credentialed or otherwise considered an expert in this field?
  • Is this source current?
  • Is this the most recent edition?
  • Is the publisher reputable?
  • Is the journal reputable?

Once your primary evaluation is complete, you will move on the assessing the content itself. Consider some of these elements as you review each source:

  • Who is the intended audience?
  • Is the author presenting her opinion or interpretation as the truth, or stating facts?
  • What supporting evidence does the author provide?
  • Did the author perform the research, or curate and present the research of others?
  • If the author used the research of others, are the sources the author cites credible?
  • Are there errors or omissions of fact?
  • Is the author writing objectively and without bias?

Also, consider the value each source provides to you:

  • Is the information helpful for your particular assignment?
  • Does it help answer your research question(s)?
  • Is this source different from your other sources, or does it repeat information you already have?
  • Is the source providing you with a different perspective on your topic, or changing your beliefs or thinking about your subject?

To make it easier for you to create your reference page, write your notes in the format you will be using when you construct this part of the assignment (for instance, as short phrases or complete sentences). Once you have identified all of the sources you wish to include, you will merely need to insert what you have already written on the page and write your citation, which is explained in the next section.

Click here for additional information and a supplementary annotated bibliography sample. For an MLA bibliography example (with annotations),  check out our visual example of an MLA annotated bibliography .

An annotated bibliography entry may be written either as short phrases or complete sentences. Your instructor will advise you of which approach you are required to take.

Annotations should include either:

  • The main points from the source, as well as the topics covered, the approach used, and any findings.
  • Or your critical evaluation.
  • A standard annotation is approximately one paragraph.
  • Take care not to include any unnecessary details, as the goal is to summarize each source as succinctly as possible and, in some cases, evaluate them.
  • Your field of study or instructor will determine what format your annotated bibliography will use. In this guide, you’ll find examples of an MLA and an APA annotated bibliography.

Here is an annotated bibliography example MLA annotation for the book The Elements of Eloquence: Secrets of the Perfect Turn of Phrase by UK author and blogger Mark Forsyth:

The author, Mark Forsyth, examines the rhetorical devices used in the English language, analyzing the patterns and formats that create memorable quotes. He traces the history of rhetoric to the Ancient Greeks, and provides an abridged timeline, following their use and evolution through to modern day. The author also explores the broader subject of persuasion and maps out the role that the figures of rhetoric play in it. In all, he examines over thirty devices, dissecting notable passages and phrases from pop music, the plays of William Shakespeare, the Bible, and more to explore the figures of rhetoric at work within each of them. Thorough definitions accompany this examination of structure to demonstrate how these formulas have been used to generate famously memorable expressions as well as how to reproduce their effects.

Notice how the annotated bibliography MLA entry above is descriptive enough so the reader has an idea of what the source is about with just a single paragraph. For more information on annotations, check out this informative site . If you’re looking to strengthen your writing in general, reading these grammar guides could be a good start.

For guidance on creating entries in MLA format , APA format , and more styles , check out the EasyBib library of resources or try the EasyBib annotation tool—we talk about it below!

Step 3a: MLA annotated bibliography format

The MLA Style Center and the current edition of the MLA Handbook provide the following guidance for formatting an MLA annotated bibliography:

  • Title your reference page as “Annotated Bibliography” or “Annotated List of Works Cited.”
  • Place each annotation after its reference.
  • Annotations should typically not exceed a single paragraph.
  • Annotations should be indented one inch from the start of your citation.
  • Double-space all text on the page.
  • 1-inch margins around the page.

Sources in an annotated bibliography can be organized alphabetically by the first word in each reference (as with a normal Works Cited page), by publication date, or by subject.

For a visual example of an annotated bibliography, as well as specific annotation examples, visit the MLA annotated bibliography guide .

MLA annotated bibliography

If you are required to share your references in a manner other than in MLA bibliography format, the EasyBib style guides can help you with many common styles. While you’re at it, check out their conjunction , preposition , and pronoun pages to help keep your paper in mint condition!

Step 3b: APA annotated bibliography format

The American Psychological Association states that your instructor should set the guidelines for your annotated bibliography, but asks that the bibliography be formatted according to their standard reference page rules (see Section 9.51 of the Publication Manual ). If your teacher has requested an APA formatted annotated bibliography, first ask them for guidelines. Otherwise, here are some quick rules for you to follow:

  • Double space all text on the page.  
  • Title your page “Annotated Bibliogra phy”. Bold and center the title.  
  • Organize references alphabetically by the first word of each reference.  
  • Only the first line of a ref erence is flush with the left margin. Any other lines after the first line should be indented ½ inch from the left.  
  • Add annotations on the next line after their paired reference.   
  • Fully indent annotations by a ½ inch from the left.  
  • Keep annotations short. No more than one paragraph.  

For examples of a  properly formatted APA annotation, visit this guide on APA annotated bibliographies .  

In comparison to the sample annotated bibliography MLA, the APA sample formats its page elements and references differently.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

Students and researchers who type their research notes can save time by using an annotated bibliography template in MLA format while reviewing and analyzing sources. By adding the relevant information into a pre-formatted template, you’ll create a resource that helps you when you begin writing your paper in addition to saving time by completing your references and summaries alongside your research.

Students who prefer to take notes by hand can employ a modified version of this approach, with an additional step required to transfer your handwritten and formatted references from your notebook to populate your reference page.

Bibliography Template for MLA

To create an annotated bibliography MLA template, copy the following details into the program in which you will take notes or hand write it on the top margin of a page in your notebook. For each source, use this template to guide you as you identify the necessary details and insert them into your notes:

  • Author (Last name, First name).
  • Title of source.
  • Title of the container ,
  • Other contributors (names and roles),
  • Publication Date,
  • Location of the source (such as URL or page range).
  • Summary or Analysis.

The MLA 9 model for MLA works cited entries offers a single format for all source type, and a great deal of flexibility to include the information most relevant to your topic and omit that which isn’t.

Hopefully our visual annotated bibliography example in MLA above has helped. If you still have lingering questions, visit the MLA Style Center online ( linked here ). Also, here’s a guide if you’re looking for more on the related topic of MLA in-text & parenthetical citations .

Bibliography Template for APA

Students and researchers who are still asking themselves how to piece together an annotated bibliography, or still questioning what is an annotated bibliography, could probably benefit from a template, similar to the one above. This one, however, is for those of you who are tasked with creating an annotated bibliography in the style created by the American Psychological Association.

The tricky thing about this specific style though, is that every reference is styled differently. Books, websites, journal articles, newspaper articles, and many others each have their own reference structure.

For most sources though, you should look for the following, basic information:

  • Type of source
  • Author (last name, first name)
  • Title of source/article/web page, etc.
  • Title of where source was found (e.g., database name, website name, etc.)
  • Other contributors (names and roles)
  • Location of the source (such as URL, DOI, or page range)
  • Summary or Analysis

We understand it can get tricky, and it’s very different from the Modern Language Association’s structure for references. Take a moment to either use the other handy guides on EasyBib.com or use our automatic generator to form your references in just a few clicks. Our tools help take the pain away from having to rack your brain to form references properly. Capitals, lowercase letters, italics, quotation marks, punctuation in the appropriate places, it can all be quite overwhelming. Do yourself a favor, and use the EasyBib automatic citation generator.

Even though there are a lot of different variations, here’s a commonly used structure for sources:

Author’s Last Name, First initial, Middle initial. (Year the source was published). Title of the source . Retrieved from (insert the website address here)

Underneath the reference, include your summary or analysis paragraph.

Hopefully, this page helped answer all of your “What is an annotated bibliography?” questions. If you’re seeking out an annotated bibliography generator, follow the steps above the annotated bibliography examples.

Looking for additional help with other related topics? Don’t forget about the various beneficial guides on EasyBib.com! Our APA in-text citation guide and our APA parenthetical citation guide are two of our most popular pages. Learn the ins and outs of referencing your work in the body of your paper with our thorough, complete, and reader-friendly guides.

If you are creating a bibliography in MLA format, the EasyBib MLA bibliography generator can help save you time formatting your citations and annotations correctly. You can create entries for websites, books, videos, databases, dictionary articles, and many other types of sources.

In addition to forming the citations, you can also enter your annotation text to produce the complete entry for each source. The process for this is simple. You can follow along below to practice creating one:

  • First, select your source type from among the 50+ available options. For this example, we will use the acting career of Keanu Reeves as our research topic and use the movie Point Break from 1991 as our first source. To cite this film, you would select the option for “Film/Online Video.” As you follow along, pick the option that is suitable for your source if you are using a different example.
  • Enter the title of your source or, if you are citing a website, you may enter the URL. (Now would be a great time to peek at how to cite websites in MLA ). After you enter the title or URL for your reference, the EasyBib citation tool will scan for titles that match it and provide you with a list of results. Select “Cite this” next to the listing that matches your source.
  • You will see a citation form. This gives you the option to add additional relevant or necessary information. For our sample topic, we will specifically cite Keanu Reeves as the performer and Kathryn Bigelow as the director.
  • After entering any additional details, you have the option to expand your entry and include an annotation. To do so, select “Add annotation” at the bottom of the page, and a text box will open up.

Then, type your summary or analysis into the text box. If you took notes during the research stage using the format of your paper, this might be as simple as copying and pasting your already written summary or critique. Once you have entered all of the necessary information, select “Create citation” to generate the complete entry. You can then copy and paste this into your MLA bibliography.

Here’s what it’ll look like:

Point Break . Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, performance by Keanu Reeves, 20th Century Fox, 1991.

Reeves’ role as rookie FBI Agent Johnny Utah in Point Break marks the turning point in his Hollywood film career. While he’d risen to fame due to the success of the Bill and Ted franchise, his status today as an action star began when Point Break provided him with the material to establish himself as capable of portraying more than the lovable but unserious characters of his previous starring roles. In a parallel arc, director Kathryn Bigelow’s career also sees a shift beginning with Point Break , establishing her within the traditional action genre as a serious director capable of creating high-action and visually memorable films. While Point Break leaves plenty to be desired in terms of dialogue, it afforded Bigelow and Reeves the opportunities to showcase themselves and their talent in new ways that still echo in their work today.

  • Works Cited

Harner, James L.  On Compiling an Annotated Bibliography . 2nd ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2000.

MLA Handbook . 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association . 7th ed., American Psychological Association, 2020.

“What Guidance Should I Give My Students for Preparing an Annotated Bibliography?” The MLA Style Center , The Modern Language Association, 4 Nov. 2016, style.mla.org/annotated-bibliographies/.

Visit our EasyBib Twitter feed to discover more citing tips, fun grammar facts, and the latest product updates.

Published October 18, 2015. Updated July 25, 2021.

Written and edited by Michele Kirschenbaum and Elise Barbeau. Michele Kirschenbaum is a school library media specialist and is the in-house librarian at EasyBib.com. Elise Barbeau is the Citation Specialist at Chegg. She has worked in digital marketing, libraries, and publishing.

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An annotated bibliography is a list containing complete information of sources, such as journals, books, and reports, cited in the text. In addition, it provides a brief description of each source in about 100–150 words. The annotation can explain the topics covered in the source or evaluate the source. The main objective of giving the annotation is to provide the reader the importance, accuracy, and value of the source.

An example of an annotated bibliography in APA style is given below.

Lim, L. (2014). Ideology, rationality and reproduction in education: A critical discourse analysis. Discourse: Studies in the Cultural Politics of Education, 35 (1), 61–76. https://doi:10.1080/01596306.2012.739467

Lim (2014) focuses on issues of power and ideology dominant in curricular discourses of rationality to study a discourse analysis of the goals of one of the most important curricula in the teaching of thinking. He proves that political and class commitments are reproduced in the forms of thinking that are valued in societies. Through his research, Lim asserts that such curricula engage in making our understanding of what thinking and rationality are. It must facilitate the social reproduction of a specific proportion of the middle class.

If you want to evaluate or provide a description of a source you are citing, you can create an annotated bibliography. Write your annotation in 100–150 words and add it below the source for which you are providing your annotation. Remember, your annotation should provide the reader the importance, accuracy, and value of the source. Below are the guidelines and rules to be followed while writing an annotated bibliography for APA style:

Order your reference entries in alphabetical order, similar to how you would order entries in the reference list.

If you want to add an annotation to an entry, add it as a fresh paragraph below the reference entry. The annotation is indented 0.5 inches from the left margin. However, the first line of the annotation is not indented.

To format the annotated bibliography, follow the recommendations given below:

Set the left, right, top, and bottom margins to 1 inch.

Give double-line spacing.

Title the page “Annotated Bibliography.” Set it in bold.

The title should be aligned to the center of the page.

As you format reference entries, left-align all references in the annotated bibliography section. If any entry runs over more than a line, indent the subsequent lines 0.5 inch from the left margin.

Arrange all reference entries alphabetically according to the surname of the authors.

Provide your annotations below the reference entry for which you want to give your annotation. Indent annotations 0.5 inches from the left margin.

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Annotated Bibliography

What is an annotation.

an•no•ta•tion : n. 1. The act or process of furnishing critical commentary or explanatory notes. 2. A critical or explanatory note; a commentary.

The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 4th ed., Houghton Mifflin, 2009.

What is an Annotated Bibliography?

A list of citations for books, articles, websites, and other materials where each citation is accompanied by a brief descriptive and evaluative statement, called an annotation .

Annotations are different from the abstracts you will find accompanying journal article citations in online databases. Abstracts are descriptive. Your annotation must extend beyond the descriptive element to include an evaluation of the book or article.

Why Annotations?

An annotated bibliography is a tool for exploring a topic of interest. The process of reading and reflecting on the materials you find in the gathering part of the research process can help you understand the topic, identify multiple perspectives, explore different methods used to investigate the topic, and give you ideas for developing the thesis for your paper.

How are Annotations Created?

  • Locate and record the citations for articles, books, and other materials you will use for your paper. You need to gather enough sources to represent a range of perspectives on your topic.
  • Create the citation using the MLA Handbook, Ninth Edition . Tools that can help you with this include handouts received in class and in the library.
  • Write the annotation directly below the citation, indented one inch from the start of the entry.
  • Consider the questions below. Keep it short but be very complete.

Questions to consider when evaluating the item and writing your annotation include:

  • What education, experience and/or background does the author have which contributes to their being an authority on the topic?
  • Who is the intended audience for the book or article and how does that influence the presentation of the information?
  • How does this work contribute to your argument or support claims about your topic?
  • What are the main conclusions of the author(s) and what evidence do they use to support them?

The MLA Handbook, Ninth Edition guidelines for an annotation are to indent the annotation one inch from the start of the entry to distinguish it from the half-inch hanging indent of the entry. The annotation is double spaced with no gap between the citation and the annotation.

Annotation should be no more than one paragraph; however, if you need several paragraphs, indent each one but do not add an extra space between paragraphs. Follow your instructor's guidelines on the length and format for your specific assignment. Below is an example of an annotated bibliography in MLA 9th edition style.

Example of Annotated Bibliography showing indentation for citation and annotation.

Annotated Bibliographies. University Libraries, U of Nevada Las Vegas, www.library.unlv.edu/, 2018.

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How to Write an Annotated Bibliography in MLA Format Step-by-Step

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Is your professor asking you to write an annotated bibliography? Are you clueless? You’ve come to the right place. The world of bibliographies can be a difficult web to weave, especially when you are talking about annotated bibliographies. Take a deep breath and get ready. You’re going to learn everything you need to know to make an annotated bibliography in MLA style.

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What Is an Annotated Bibliography?

MLA typically uses a works cited . But there might come a time when a professor asks you for an annotated bibliography , too. An annotated bibliography just takes your references to the next level. In addition to providing citation, it gives you more information through an annotation: a fancy word for further explanation.

The Use and Difference

A standard bibliography provides basic information about your source. You have the author, title and publication information. But, sometimes that’s not enough. An annotated bibliography can provide a more in-depth study or evaluation.

In the process of creating your paper, you have become a topic expert. Show the world your expertise. Demonstrate why the source was perfect for your audience, and for the central theme of the article or book. It also allows you to show how this work compares to others you’ve discussed.

Creating an Annotated Bibliography in MLA

Student writing annotated bibliography in MLA

Before looking at the steps to creating an annotated bibliography , there are a few things to remember about formatting.

  • Double-space your annotated bibliography.
  • Annotated bibliographies don’t have specific guidelines in the 8 th edition MLA handbook for making quotes. Therefore, if you need to include quotes, keep them short.
  • Use hanging indents for citation. The first line will start on the left margin, but consecutive lines will be indented four spaces.
  • Indent the beginning of the annotation.
  • The annotation is typically between 100 and 300 words.
  • Title the page “Annotated Bibliography.”

Now, that you know how to format, it is time to begin writing.

Step 1: Create Your Citation

Citations will vary depending on what you are citing. For example, the format for citing a book will be different than a magazine. MLA breaks down the core elements of your citation to author, title, title of container, contributors, version, number, publisher, publication date and location. For a website or digital file, a URL might be included as well. Check out an example:

Annotated Bibliography

Austen, J. Pride and Prejudice . Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2004.

Step 2: Create the Annotation

Creating the annotation is the pivotal part. This is an annotated bibliography after all. The first thing to think about is whether this is a summary annotation or evaluative annotation. Per their names, the summary annotation provides a summary while an evaluative annotation evaluates the work. Examine each one in more depth:

  • Summary Annotation: This type will summarize the source for the readers, letting them know the central theme of the book, plus information about the author and the audience the book was designed for.
  • Evaluative Annotation: Beyond just a quick summary, this type of annotation allows you to go into more depth about the author, including any expertise and bias they have. It might compare the work to other works and delve into why it was used for the topic along with strengths and weaknesses you found.

An example of a summary annotation might look like:

This story explores the way that pride and prejudice affect the relationship of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy, along with other characters in the book. Written by Jane Austin, it is a…

Difference in MLA

MLA was designed for humanities writers. These are the people that write about literature, philosophy and cultural science, to name a few. In these areas, you’ll see writers comparing one work to another. This means that this type of writing will be more focused on the writer of sources and where to find them, which is where citations focus.

Annotation Master

While an MLA annotated bibliography might look terrifying, remember you are an expert. You’ve done the research and have all the skills to prove to your audience why this source was perfect for your paper.

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MLA Citation Guide (9th Edition): Annotated Bibliography

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Annotated Bibliography Template

  • MLA Annotated Bibliography Template

This sample annotated bibliography shows you the structure you should use to write an MLA annotated bibliography and gives examples of evaluative and summary annotations.

It can be used as a template to set up your assignment.

What is an Annotated Bibliography?

Useful Links for Annotated Bibliographies

  • Annotated Bibliographies Overview of purpose and form of annotated bibliographies from the Purdue OWL.
  • Annotated Bibliography Sample Sample annotations in an MLA and an APA annotated bibliography. From the Purdue OWL.
  • Annotated Bibliography Breakdown An example of an MLA annotated bibliography. From the Purdue OWL.

Annotations

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations for various books, articles, and other sources on a topic. The annotated bibliography looks like a Works Cited page but includes an annotation after each source cited. An annotation is a short summary and/or critical evaluation of a source. Annotated bibliographies can be part of a larger research project, or can be a stand-alone report in itself.

Types of Annotations

 A summary annotation describes the source by answering the following questions: who wrote the document, what the document discusses, when and where was the document written, why was the document produced, and how was it provided to the public. The focus is on description. 

 An evaluative annotation includes a summary as listed above but also critically assesses the work for accuracy, relevance, and quality. Evaluative annotations can help you learn about your topic, develop a thesis statement, decide if a specific source will be useful for your assignment, and determine if there is enough valid information available to complete your project. The focus is on description and evaluation.

Writing an Evaluative Annotation

  • Cite the source using MLA style.
  • Describe the main ideas, arguments, themes, theses, or methodology, and identify the intended audience.
  • Explain the author’s expertise, point of view, and any bias he/she may have.
  • Compare to other sources on the same topic that you have also cited to show similarities and differences.
  • Explain why each source is useful for your research topic and how it relates to your topic.
  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each source.
  • Identify the observations or conclusions of the author. 

Basic Tips on Writing and Formatting

  • Each annotation should be one paragraph, between three to six sentences long (about 150- 200 words).
  • Start with the same format as a regular Works Cited list.
  • All lines should be double-spaced. Do not add an extra line between the citations.
  • If your list of citations is especially long, you can organize it by topic.
  • Try to be objective, and give explanations if you state any opinions.
  • Use the third person (e.g., he, she, the author) instead of the first person (e.g., I, my, me)

Sample Evaluative Annotation

London, Herbert. “Five Myths of the Television Age.” Television Quarterly , vol. 10, no. 1, Mar. 1982, pp. 81-69. Herbert London, the Dean of Journalism at New York University and author of several books and articles, explains how television contradicts five commonly believed ideas. He uses specific examples of events seen on television, such as the assassination of John Kennedy, to illustrate his points. His examples have been selected to contradict such truisms as: “seeing is believing”; “a picture is worth a thousand words”; and “satisfaction is its own reward.” London uses logical arguments to support his ideas which are his personal opinion. He does not refer to any previous works on the topic. London’s style and vocabulary would make the article of interest to any reader. The article clearly illustrates London’s points, but does not explore their implications leaving the reader with many unanswered questions.

Adapted from:

"How to Write Annotated Bibliographies."  Memorial University Libraries , www.library.mun.ca/researchtools/guides/writing/annotated_bibl/. Accessed 29 June 2016.

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How to Prepare an Annotated Bibliography: The Annotated Bibliography

  • The Annotated Bibliography
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Explanation, Process, Directions, and Examples

What is an annotated bibliography.

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to books, articles, and documents. Each citation is followed by a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph, the annotation. The purpose of the annotation is to inform the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of the sources cited.

Annotations vs. Abstracts

Abstracts are the purely descriptive summaries often found at the beginning of scholarly journal articles or in periodical indexes. Annotations are descriptive and critical; they may describe the author's point of view, authority, or clarity and appropriateness of expression.

The Process

Creating an annotated bibliography calls for the application of a variety of intellectual skills: concise exposition, succinct analysis, and informed library research.

First, 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, (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 Appraising the Book, Article, or Document

For guidance in critically appraising and analyzing the sources for your bibliography, see How to Critically Analyze Information Sources . For information on the author's background and views, ask at the reference desk for help finding appropriate biographical reference materials and book review sources.

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's Citation Management page .

Sample Annotated Bibliography Entries

The following example uses APA style ( Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , 7th edition, 2019) for the journal citation:

Waite, L., Goldschneider, F., & Witsberger, C. (1986). Nonfamily living and the erosion of traditional family orientations among young adults. American Sociological Review, 51 (4), 541-554. The authors, researchers at the Rand Corporation and Brown University, use data from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Young Women and Young Men to test their hypothesis that nonfamily living by young adults alters their attitudes, values, plans, and expectations, moving them away from their belief in traditional sex roles. They find their hypothesis strongly supported in young females, while the effects were fewer in studies of young males. Increasing the time away from parents before marrying increased individualism, self-sufficiency, and changes in attitudes about families. In contrast, an earlier study by Williams cited below shows no significant gender differences in sex role attitudes as a result of nonfamily living.

This example uses MLA style ( MLA Handbook , 9th edition, 2021) for the journal citation. For additional annotation guidance from MLA, see 5.132: Annotated Bibliographies .

Waite, Linda J., et al. "Nonfamily Living and the Erosion of Traditional Family Orientations Among Young Adults." American Sociological Review, vol. 51, no. 4, 1986, pp. 541-554. The authors, researchers at the Rand Corporation and Brown University, use data from the National Longitudinal Surveys of Young Women and Young Men to test their hypothesis that nonfamily living by young adults alters their attitudes, values, plans, and expectations, moving them away from their belief in traditional sex roles. They find their hypothesis strongly supported in young females, while the effects were fewer in studies of young males. Increasing the time away from parents before marrying increased individualism, self-sufficiency, and changes in attitudes about families. In contrast, an earlier study by Williams cited below shows no significant gender differences in sex role attitudes as a result of nonfamily living.

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Annotated Bibliographies

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What Is An Annotated Bibliography?

What is an annotated bibliography.

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations (references) to books, articles, and documents followed by a brief summary, analysis or evaluation, usually between 100-300 words, of the sources that are cited in the paper.  This summary provides a description of the contents of the source and may also include evaluative comments, such as the relevance, accuracy and quality of the source.  These summaries are known as annotations. 

  • Annotated bibliographies are completed before a paper is written
  • They can be stand-along assignments
  • They can be used as a reference tool as a person works on their paper

Annotations vs. Abstracts

Abstracts are the descriptive summaries of article contents found at the beginning of scholarly journal articles that are written by the article author(s) or editor. Their purpose is to inform a reader about the topic, methodology, results and conclusion of the research of the article's author(s).  The summaries are provided so that a researcher can determine whether or not the article may have information of interest to them.  Abstracts do not serve an evaluative purpose.

Annotations found in bibliographies are evaluations of sources cited in a paper.  They describe a work, but also critique the source by examining the author’s point of view, the strengths and weakness of the research or article hypothesis or how well the author presented their research or findings.

How to write an annotated bibliography

The creation of an annotated bibliography is a three-step process. It starts with finding and evaluating sources for your paper. Next is choosing the type or category of annotation, then writing the annotation for each different source. The final step is to choose a citation style for the bibliography.

Types of Annotated Bibliographies

Types of Annotations

Annotations come in different types, the one to use depends on the instructor’s assignment.  Annotations can be descriptive, a summary, or an  evaluation or a combination of descriptive and evaluation.

Descriptive/Summarizing Annotations

There are two kinds of descriptive or summarizing annotations, informative or indicative, depending on what is most important for a reader to learn about a source.  Descriptive/summarizing annotations provide a brief overview or summary of the source. This can include a description of the contents and a statement of the main argument or position of the article as well as a summary of the main points.  It may also describe why the source would be useful for the paper’s topic or question. 

Indicative annotations provide a quick overview of the source, the kinds of questions/topics/issues or main points that are addressed by the source, but do not include information from the argument or position itself.

Informative annotations, like indicative annotations, provide a brief summary of the source.   In addition, an informative annotation identifies the hypothesis, results, and conclusions presented by the source.  When appropriate, they describe the author’s methodology or approach to the topic under discussion.  However, they do not provide information about the sources usefulness to the paper or contains analytical or critical information about the source’s quality. 

Evaluative Annotations (also known as critical or analytical)

Evaluative annotations go beyond just summarizing the source and listing out it’s key points, but also analyzes the content. It looks at the strengths and weaknesses of the article’s argument, the reliability of the presented information as well as any biases of the author. It talks about how the source may be useful to a particular field of study or the person’s research project.

Combination Annotations

Combination annotations “combine” aspects from indicative/informative and evaluative annotations and are the most common category of annotated bibliography.  Combination annotations include one to two sentences summarizing or describing content, in addition to one or more sentences providing an critical evaluation.

Writing Style for Annotations

Annotations typically follow three specific formats depending on how long they are.

  • Phrases – Short phrases providing the information in a quick, concise manner.
  • Sentences – Complete sentences with proper punctuation and grammar, but are short and concise.
  • Paragraphs – Longer annotations break the information out into different paragraphs. This format is very effective for combination annotations.

To sum it up:

An annotation may include the following information:

  • A brief summary or overview of the source content
  • The source’s strengths and weaknesses in presenting the argument or position
  • Its conclusions
  • Why the source is relevant in to field of study of the paper
  • Its relationships to other studies in the field
  • An evaluation of the research methodology (if applicable)
  • Information about the author’s background and potential biases
  • Conclusions about the usefulness of the source for the paper

Critically Analyzing Articles

In order to write an annotation for a paper source, you need to first read and then critically analyze it:

  • Try to identify the topic of the source -- what is it about and is it clearly stated.
  • See if you can identify the purpose of the author(s) in doing the research or writing about the topic. Is it to survey and summarize research on a topic?  Is the author(s) presenting an argument based on previous research, or refuting previously published research?
  • Identify the research methods used and try to identify whether they appear to be suitable or not for the stated purpose of the research.  
  • Was the research reported in a consistent or clear manner?  Or, was the author's argument/position presented in a consistent or convincing manner? Did the author(s) fail to acknowledge and explain any limitations?
  • Was the logic of the research/argument claims properly supported with convincing evidence/analysis/data? Did you spot any fallacies?
  • Check whether the author(s) refers to other research and if similar studies have been done. 
  • If illustrations or charts are used, are they effective in presenting information?
  • Analyze the sources that were used by the author(s). Did the author(s) miss any important studies they should have considered?
  • Your opinion of the source -- do you agree with or are convinced of the findings?  
  • Your estimation of the source’s contribution to knowledge and its implications or applications to the field of study.

Worksheet for Taking Notes for Critical Analysis of Sources/Articles

Additional Resources:

Hofmann, B., Magelssen, M. In pursuit of goodness in bioethics: analysis of an exemplary article. BMC Med Ethics 19, 60 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12910-018-0299-9

Jansen, M., & Ellerton, P. (2018). How to read an ethics paper. Journal of Medical Ethics, 44(12), 810-813.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/medethics-2018-104997

Research & Learning Services, Olin Library, Cornell University Library  Critically Analyzing Information Sources: Critical Appraisal and Analysis

Formatting An Annotated Bibliography

How do I format my annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography entry consists of two components: the Citation and the Annotation.

The citation should be formatted in the bibliographic style that your instructor has requested for the paper. Some common citation styles include APA, MLA, and Chicago. For more information on citation styles, see Writing Guides, Style Manuals and the Publication Process in the Biological & Health Sciences .

Many databases (e.g., PubMed, Academic Search Premier, Library Search on library homepage, and Google Scholar) offer the option of creating your references in various citation styles. 

Look for the "cite" link -- see examples for the following resources:

University of Minnesota Library Search

Library Search Citation and List

Google Scholar

Google Scholar Citation List

Sample Annotated Bibliography Entries

An example of an Evaluative Annotation , APA style (7th ed). (sample from University Libraries, University of Nevada ).

APA does not have specific formatting rules for annotations, just for the citation and bibliography.

Maak, T. (2007). Responsible leadership, stakeholder engagement, and the emergence of social capital. Journal of Business Ethics, 74, 329-343.  https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-007-9510-5

This article focuses on the role of social capital in responsible leadership. It looks at both the social networks that a leader builds within an organization, and the links that a leader creates with external stakeholders. Maak’s main aim with this article seems to be to persuade people of the importance of continued research into the abilities that a leader requires and how they can be acquired. The focus on the world of multinational business means that for readers outside this world many of the conclusions seem rather obvious (be part of the solution not part of the problem). In spite of this, the article provides useful background information on the topic of responsible leadership and definitions of social capital which are relevant to an analysis of a public servant.

An example of an Evaluative Annotation , MLA Style (10th ed), (sample from Columbia College, Vancouver, Canada )

MLA style requires double-spacing (not shown here) and paragraph indentations.

London, Herbert. “Five Myths of the Television Age.” Television Quarterly, vol. 10, no. 1, Mar. 1982, pp. 81-69.

     Herbert London, the Dean of Journalism at New York University and author of several books and articles, explains how television contradicts five commonly believed ideas. He uses specific examples of events seen on television, such as the assassination of John Kennedy, to illustrate his points. His examples have been selected to contradict such truisms as: “seeing is believing”; “a picture is worth a thousand words”; and “satisfaction is its own reward.” London uses logical arguments to support his ideas which are his personal opinion. He does not refer to any previous works on the topic. London’s style and vocabulary would make the article of interest to any reader. The article clearly illustrates London’s points, but does not explore their implications leaving the reader with many unanswered questions.

Additional Resources

University Libraries Tutorial --  Tutorial: What are citations?  Completing this tutorial you will:

  • Understand what citations are
  • Recognize why they are important
  • Create and use citations in your papers and other scholarly work

University of Minnesota Resources

Beatty, L., & Cochran, C. (2020). Writing the annotated bibliography : A guide for students & researchers . New York, NY: Routledge. [ebook] 

Efron, S., Ravid, R., & ProQuest. (2019). Writing the literature review : A practical guide . New York: The Guilford Press. [ebook -- see Chapter 6 on Evaluating Research Articles] 

Center for Writing: Student Writing Support

  • Critical reading strategies
  • Common Writing Projects (includes resources for literature reviews & analyzing research articles)

Resources from Other Libraries

Annotated Bibliographies (The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill)

Writing An Annotated Bibliography (University of Toronto)

Annotated Bibliographies (Purdue Writing Lab, Purdue University)

Annotated Bibliography (UNSW Sydney)

What is an annotated bibliography? (Santiago Canyon College Library): Oct 17, 2017. 3:47 min.

Writing an annotated bibliography (EasyBib.com) Oct 22, 2020. 4:53 min.

Creating an annotated bibliography (Laurier University Library, Waterloo, Ontario)/ Apr 3, 2019, 3:32 min.

How to create an annotated bibliography: MLA (JamesTheDLC) Oct 23, 2019. 3:03 min.

Citing Sources

Introduction

Citations are brief notations in the body of a research paper that point to a source in the bibliography or references cited section.

If your paper quotes, paraphrases, summarizes the work of someone else, you need to use citations.

Citation style guides such as APA, Chicago and MLA provide detailed instructions on how citations and bibliographies should be formatted.

Health Sciences Research Toolkit

Resources, tips, and guidelines to help you through the research process., finding information.

Library Research Checklist Helpful hints for starting a library research project.

Search Strategy Checklist and Tips Helpful tips on how to develop a literature search strategy.

Boolean Operators: A Cheat Sheet Boolean logic (named after mathematician George Boole) is a system of logic to designed to yield optimal search results. The Boolean operators, AND, OR, and NOT, help you construct a logical search. Boolean operators act on sets -- groups of records containing a particular word or concept.

Literature Searching Overview and tips on how to conduct a literature search.

Health Statistics and Data Sources Health related statistics and data sources are increasingly available on the Internet. They can be found already neatly packaged, or as raw data sets. The most reliable data comes from governmental sources or health-care professional organizations.

Evaluating Information

Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Sources in the Health Sciences Understand what are considered primary, secondary and tertiary sources.

Scholarly vs Popular Journals/Magazines How to determine what are scholarly journals vs trade or popular magazines.

Identifying Peer-Reviewed Journals A “peer-reviewed” or “refereed” journal is one in which the articles it contains have been examined by people with credentials in the article’s field of study before it is published.

Evaluating Web  Resources When searching for information on the Internet, it is important to be aware of the quality of the information being presented to you. Keep in mind that anyone can host a web site. To be sure that the information you are looking at is credible and of value.

Conducting Research Through An Anti-Racism Lens This guide is for students, staff, and faculty who are incorporating an anti-racist lens at all stages of the research life cycle.

Understanding Research Study Designs Covers case studies, randomized control trials, systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

Qualitative Studies Overview of what is a qualitative study and how to recognize, find and critically appraise.

Writing and Publishing

Citing Sources Citations are brief notations in the body of a research paper that point to a source in the bibliography or references cited section.

Structure of a Research Paper Reports of research studies usually follow the IMRAD format. IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, [and] Discussion) is a mnemonic for the major components of a scientific paper. These elements are included in the overall structure of a research paper.

Top Reasons for Non-Acceptance of Scientific Articles Avoid these mistakes when preparing an article for publication.

Annotated Bibliographies Guide on how to create an annotated bibliography.

Writing guides, Style Manuals and the Publication Process in the Biological and Health Sciences Style manuals, citation guides as well as information on public access policies, copyright and plagiarism.

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How to Write Annotated Bibliographies : Steps and Examples

  • Writing Resources
  • Steps and Examples

Basic Steps

Annotated Bibliography

Creating an annotated bibliography involves selecting valid sources, summarizing, and evaluating them in relation to a particular research topic. Here are the basic steps to create an annotated bibliography:

1. Identify your research topic: Determine the subject or theme you're investigating and identify keywords or key phrases related to it. You should have a research question in mind. 2. Locate relevant sources: Conduct a comprehensive search using academic databases, libraries, online catalogs, and search engines to find scholarly sources such as books, journal articles, and reputable websites that are relevant to your topic. 3. Evaluate the sources: Assess the currency, relevance, authority, accuracy, and repurpose of each source. Consider factors like the author's credentials, publication date, peer-review status, and the reputation of the publisher or journal. Look for pros and cons of your topic. 4. Include citation details: Create a citation for each source in the appropriate citation style (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago). Include all necessary information such as the author's name, title of the work, publication date, and source details. 5. Read and summarize: Read each source thoroughly and take concise notes. Summarize the main ideas, arguments, methodologies, and findings presented in the source. Focus on the aspects that are most relevant to your research.  

6. Write the annotation: After the citation, write a brief paragraph (around 100-200 words) that provides an evaluation of the source. Describe the relevance of the source to your research topic, discuss the main arguments or ideas presented, and evaluate the source's strengths and weaknesses. Consider the source's methodology, bias, and its contribution to your understanding of the topic.  

7. Revise and proofread: Review your annotated bibliography for any errors, inconsistencies, or omissions. Check the accuracy of your citations and ensure that the annotations are clear, concise, and well-written. Remember to consult any specific guidelines or instructions provided by your instructor or institution, as requirements for annotated bibliographies may vary.

Example Entry

Question: How might knowledge of conspiracy theories impact our understanding misinformation on the internet?

Kennedy Assassination Conspiracy Entry Kurtz, M. L. (1980). Lee Harvey Oswald in New Orleans: A Reappraisal. Louisiana History: The Journal of the Louisiana Historical Association, 21(1), 7-22. This article talks about if Lee Harvey Oswald is the real killer of President Kennedy. It displays a lot of facts and witness accounts about the murder suggesting that Lee Harvey Oswald was in fact the shooter on the 6th story of the Texas School Book Deposit. Witness accounts claim to see Oswald standing on the 6th floor just moments before the shooting. It goes to talk about possible connections with the godfather of the mob Carlos Marcello.

This article is very useful because it ties the Mob in with Oswald and the killing of Kennedy. It shows a lot of facts including witness accounts and hard evidence. The mob's connection with Kennedy is very important because of the fact that John F. Kennedy also had a solid connection with the mob through his father. This article helps me cover more material for my paper and gives me a chance to write about Kennedy and Oswald’s connection with the mob. Witness accounts are key to an investigation and when they line up with the hard evidence it gives the theory that Oswald did indeed kill Kennedy.

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Annotated Bibliography Samples

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Below you will find sample annotations from annotated bibliographies, each with a different research project. Remember that the annotations you include in your own bibliography should reflect your research project and/or the guidelines of your assignment.

As mentioned elsewhere in this resource, depending on the purpose of your bibliography, some annotations may summarize, some may assess or evaluate a source, and some may reflect on the source’s possible uses for the project at hand. Some annotations may address all three of these steps. Consider the purpose of your annotated bibliography and/or your instructor’s directions when deciding how much information to include in your annotations.

Please keep in mind that all your text, including the write-up beneath the citation, must be indented so that the author's last name is the only text that is flush left.

Sample MLA Annotation

Lamott, Anne. Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life . Anchor Books, 1995.

Lamott's book offers honest advice on the nature of a writing life, complete with its insecurities and failures. Taking a humorous approach to the realities of being a writer, the chapters in Lamott's book are wry and anecdotal and offer advice on everything from plot development to jealousy, from perfectionism to struggling with one's own internal critic.

In the process, Lamott includes writing exercises designed to be both productive and fun. Lamott offers sane advice for those struggling with the anxieties of writing, but her main project seems to be offering the reader a reality check regarding writing, publishing, and struggling with one's own imperfect humanity in the process. Rather than a practical handbook to producing and/or publishing, this text is indispensable because of its honest perspective, its down-to-earth humor, and its encouraging approach.

Chapters in this text could easily be included in the curriculum for a writing class. Several of the chapters in Part 1 address the writing process and would serve to generate discussion on students' own drafting and revising processes. Some of the writing exercises would also be appropriate for generating classroom writing exercises. Students should find Lamott's style both engaging and enjoyable.

In the sample annotation above, the writer includes three paragraphs: a summary, an evaluation of the text, and a reflection on its applicability to his/her own research, respectively.

For information on formatting MLA citations, see our MLA 9th Edition (2021) Formatting and Style Guide .

Sample APA Annotation

Ehrenreich, B. (2001). Nickel and dimed: On (not) getting by in America . Henry Holt and Company.

In this book of nonfiction based on the journalist's experiential research, Ehrenreich attempts to ascertain whether it is currently possible for an individual to live on a minimum-wage in America. Taking jobs as a waitress, a maid in a cleaning service, and a Walmart sales employee, the author summarizes and reflects on her work, her relationships with fellow workers, and her financial struggles in each situation.

An experienced journalist, Ehrenreich is aware of the limitations of her experiment and the ethical implications of her experiential research tactics and reflects on these issues in the text. The author is forthcoming about her methods and supplements her experiences with scholarly research on her places of employment, the economy, and the rising cost of living in America. Ehrenreich’s project is timely, descriptive, and well-researched.

The annotation above both summarizes and assesses the book in the citation. The first paragraph provides a brief summary of the author's project in the book, covering the main points of the work. The second paragraph points out the project’s strengths and evaluates its methods and presentation. This particular annotation does not reflect on the source’s potential importance or usefulness for this person’s own research.

For information on formatting APA citations, see our APA Formatting and Style Guide .

Sample Chicago Manual of Style Annotation

Davidson, Hilda Ellis. Roles of the Northern Goddess . London: Routledge, 1998.

Davidson's book provides a thorough examination of the major roles filled by the numerous pagan goddesses of Northern Europe in everyday life, including their roles in hunting, agriculture, domestic arts like weaving, the household, and death. The author discusses relevant archaeological evidence, patterns of symbol and ritual, and previous research. The book includes a number of black and white photographs of relevant artifacts.

This annotation includes only one paragraph, a summary of the book. It provides a concise description of the project and the book's project and its major features.

For information on formatting Chicago Style citations, see our Chicago Manual of Style resources.

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Updated 25 Jul 2024

Writing an annotated bibliography is one of academic work's most challenging yet essential parts. This helpful EduBirdie guide will tell you all about the important parts, provide structure, and list useful examples. We shall also focus on formatting aspects and learn more about the differences.

Learning how to write an annotated bibliography may seem like a lot of work, yet our guide will make things much easier for you! With all the steps you must take, you can handle this part of your essay or research paper without worrying.

Learn what is an annotated bibliography in academic writing

Before you further discover how to write an annotated bibliography in the best way possible, let us define its main purpose. An annotated bibliography is a piece of academic writing that accompanies almost every research project. In layman’s terms, an annotated bibliography should give readers an account of your research work on a specified topic/subject. This means that you should provide a typical alphabetical list in an annotated bib format with relevant research sources you have used. If you have tried to learn how to write a literature review or tried to work with several sources, you will understand the main purpose of such work.

Here, you should provide more than bibliographic data. It must offer a concise summary based on each source used. You should also show an evaluation and analysis of why some resource or a book is valuable, important, and relevant to your work. Quite a lot will depend on what you wish to do. For example, you may have to provide an annotated bibliography template that belongs to a large research project. Likewise, it may be a separate project you may be asked to do as a college student.

The types of annotated bibliography

As you may already know, annotated bibliographies are often of different types. You must double-check your grading rubric instructions before you start with the formatting. While you may already have an example of annotated bibliography, take a quick look at these variations:

  • Depending on what you must do in your research paper and/or assignment, the task is to provide a summary and avoid any evaluation. 
  • Another type of assignment may involve noticing and commenting on certain patterns that show similarities and dissimilarities between two or more sources.
  • An assignment may ask you to treat each given or found source independently.
  • If working with a lengthy piece of writing, your bibliography may be separate research.
  • Finally, an annotated bibliography layout may even include a preface that discusses your investigation type and justifies your sources.

Do not let it frighten you because each type of writing is not too challenging! If you are stuck with overcoming writer’s block and you need someone to push you through, it is only necessary to ask for help!

Comparing an annotated bibliography with a literature review and an abstract

It is no wonder that many students often feel confused when it comes to working with a literature review and working with an abstract. Here is what we need to know to see the difference when writing an annotated bibliography:

  • An annotated bibliography : Each source is based on how exactly it relates to the topic.
  • A literature review: This one combines multiple sources to show and evaluate where they agree or disagree. 
  • An abstract: Here, you show a brief summary based on a particular resource. Unlike a bibliography annotation, it must provide a summary and evaluate the quality relevant to the chosen source.

In case you do not know how to work with any of these types of writing, you must consider paper writers for hire who will help you to determine what tasks you have to do. At the same time, you may also find an expert who can assist you with properly formatting the sources. Here is what we shall review next to let you see what it means when you have to work on an APA annotated bibliography format as one of the examples. If you already know some writing styles, the changes you must make to the annotated bibliography will not be too much work. 

The differences in writing an annotated bibliography in different styles (APA, MLA, Chicago)

If you have been given an assignment in MLA or the document is in annotated bibliography Chicago style format, the annotated bibliography must be in the same format. Let’s see the peculiarities of the most popular formatting: 

The APA style asks you to provide the purpose of your work, a brief summary of the content included, information about the authors(s), the type of the audience, and the relevance of your writing to the resource. It must have a running head and a page number. The "Annotated Bibliography" title must be centered. The font must be Times New Roman 12 with 1' margins. Here is an APA annotated bibliography sample to help you know what it looks like in practice: 

Danielsen, VE. (1999). Roles of Academic Writing in South Africa . London: Routledge. 

Danielsen's book provides complete documentation on the role of academic writing filled by various scientists in South Africa, the United Kingdom, and beyond. The book provides the challenges of the daily life of English students... The author discusses... The book includes a hypothesis that helped...

You must title your reference page "Annotated Bibliography" with annotations included in full. They should not go beyond a single paragraph. Here is what an MLA annotated bibliography looks like: 

Fleiss, Noah. The Big Blue Sky: Aviation and Simulation . MIT Press, 2022. 

The author, Noah Fleiss, examines various differences between aviation implemented in simulation and real field conditions. He provides various patterns based on his interest in the automotive industry... The author also explores various reviews that speak in favor of...

Remember adding the running MLA head on the page with the indents after the first line!

  • Chicago style:

Ford, Lita. "Thirty Years in Metal: Women in Rock", Penguin Books, 2009

Lita Ford is a famous musician and the head woman behind the famous 70s metal all-female-fronted band called "The Runaways". She describes her life in the music industry and tells an honest review about all the hard work. Ford is as honest as a person can be with various examples and interviews. 

The hanging indent must be present, while the text must be double-spaced and aligned to the left. All the rest goes according to the rest of your paper, formatted in CMOS (Chicago Manual of Style). 

Speaking of interviews, if you need to create an excellent Chicago style interview citation or something related to a specific task, feel free to give us a shout! We are always available for you! 

What an annotated bibliography looks in practice: helpful examples

Nothing compares to having an annotated bibliography example you can look at. Of course, a lot will depend on what tasks you have. If you need to evaluate something, it will have a different tone and information you need to source. Sure enough, an annotated bibliography writer will be an excellent assistant, so feel free to ask if you are stuck somewhere. As for now, see this example: 

Smith, Patricia, 2014. Roles of Women in Political Rebellions. Manchester University Press. 

Patricia Smith is an anthropologist who has provided a detailed examination of the role of women in political rebellions. Interestingly, Smith starts with the Middle Ages and ends with the 2000s. As an author, she focuses on the sources, instruments, and the outcome. 

Here is what another example of an APA annotated bibliography looks like: 

Geraghty, D. (1997). Automotive Industry in Brighton Auto Services . Brighton: Cambridge Press. 

This book has helped me see the British perspective on a particular case scenario. Geraghty has provided various business schemes that helped me add more examples… The examples on pages 32 and 34 have helped me clarify my thesis. 

Since we have already learned the most about what an annotated bib format looks like, let’s move on to the steps you must take to create your personal annotated page. 

5 steps to write an annotated bibliography

Before you start with any type of writing, you must take the following obligatory steps: 

Step 1: Choosing relevant sources.

Locate those resources (books, journals, websites, etc) that may be useful to support your thesis and/or the main argument. 

Step 2: Review the list of items.

To learn how to make an annotated bibliography, you must look at all you have found and take specific notes. They must contain useful information and the background of the author if necessary. 

Step 3: Sort your sources according to a style format.

Since most sources must be sorted alphabetically, you may also sort them by order of importance. It is not always necessary, yet we have seen such cases. In either case, do every annotated bibliography citation based on the specified writing style. 

Step 4: Start with your annotation.

Write down all your notes and thoughts. As a rule, keep one source to one paragraph. It is a required format for annotated bibliography. If you go beyond one paragraph, use an additional indent. 

Step 5: Provide a thesis when and if necessary.

Some cases may require adding a thesis at the end or providing an additional analysis. It should be like precis writing , when you have to provide content in limited words based on an idea or a paragraph. 

How to make your annotated bibliography stand out?

Here are some tips that will help you to achieve success. Regardless of what annotated bibliography structure, you have to follow this checklist: 

  • Identify the author’s thesis to find out the central claim or purpose. 
  • See if there are any specific repetitions or omissions. 
  • Take notes of what makes the author exceptional. 
  • Notice how the text has been organized. 
  • Notice what the theory is used for (an interpretation, analysis, overview, etc)
  • Identify the methods to structure an annotated bibliography introduction example. It means that setting things clear right from the start is important! 
  • Look for those final paragraphs that provide a summary.

At the same time, remember to paraphrase what you see in the book. If you are unsure what it means, see the plagiarism vs paraphrasing guide to learn all the specifics. 

Some final tips to remember!

Remember that taking notes is essential as it will help you save time. As you learn how to structure an annotated bibliography, you will already know what to write and how to tell your audience about the author. It will always pay off if you take time to prepare things first. If things still sound rough, let us know how we can assist 24/7. Our experts will guide you through!

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Content Lead. Writing and plagiarism detection expert with a deep understanding of academic integrity and plagiarism cases.

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What is an annotated bibliography MLA?

An annotated bibliography MLA is a list of sources such as books, articles, and documents and provides a brief description and evaluation of each source. An annotated bibliography MLA is a great way to keep track of your sources and cite them correctly.

An annotated bibliography MLA includes a citation followed by a brief description and/or evaluation of the source. The annotations are typically short (around 150 words) and provide the reader with an overview of the source.

Annotations should include a summary of the source's main points, a discussion of its strengths and weaknesses, and a reflection on its relevance to the topic. When creating an annotated bibliography MLA , the citation should be written in the proper MLA format.

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A direct result of the conquest of Tenochtitlan by Hernan Cortes in 1521 was the fall of the Aztec empire .

The Aztec civilization came to an end on August 13, 1521, when Spanish adventurer Hernan Cortes was successful in bringing down Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire , after more than two months of battle.

A key moment in the Spanish invasion of the empire was the fall of Tenochtitlan, the Aztec Empire's capital. It took place in 1521 as a result of considerable political exploitation and manipulation by Spanish conquistador Hernan Cortes of local groups. Native American allies, as well as La Malinche, his interpreter and companion, helped him.

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What are 7 causes of the French Revolution?

The French Revolution was a major event in world history that took place between 1789 and 1799, resulting in the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic in France. There were a variety of causes that contributed to the revolution, including economic, political, and social factors. Here are seven of the main causes of the French Revolution:

Economic : The French economy was in a state of crisis in the years leading up to the French revolution. The country was heavily in debt from wars with other European powers, and the cost of food was rising while wages were stagnant. This led to widespread poverty among the lower classes, who were hit the hardest by the economic downturn.

Political : The French government was plagued by corruption and inefficiency, and the monarchy was seen as out of touch with the needs of the people. The king and queen, Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette , were seen as frivolous and insensitive to the plight of the poor.

Social: The French society was divided into three classes , the First Estate ( clergy ), the Second Estate ( nobility ) and the Third Estate ( everyone else ). The Third Estate, who made up the majority of the population, were treated as second-class citizens and had no representation in the government.

Enlightenment ideas : The Enlightenment was a period of intellectual and cultural change in Europe in the 18th century. It emphasized reason, individual freedom , and democracy , and many of its ideas were influential in the French Revolution.

Financial crisis : The French government was in a financial crisis due to a number of factors, including the cost of wars , the extravagance of the royal court, and the financial mismanagement of the government.

Food shortages: The French people were facing food shortages and rising food prices, which was a significant contributor to the unrest that led to the French revolution. This was partly due to a severe drought in 1788 and partly due to the government's inability to properly manage the food supply.

International events: The French Revolution was also influenced by events happening in other countries, such as the American Revolution and the Enlightenment ideals spreading across Europe. These events provided inspiration and support for the revolution in France.

In summary, The French Revolution was caused by a combination of economic, political, and social factors, as well as the influence of Enlightenment ideas, financial crisis, food shortages, and international events. The dissatisfaction of the third estate, the financial crisis and the Enlightenment ideas were the main causes of French Revolution.

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Conditions of Labor Issues: Discussion Explain the terms in your own words... 1. Long Hours, Low Pay 2. Poor Conditions 3. Child Labor 4. Lack of Job Security

Long hour, low pay means supply is greeter then demand of labor. Poor conditions means unfavorable working conditions, Child labor - Children working below age of 14 years, Lack of job security means no secure jobs.

Child labor limits children's access to and enjoyment of education and denies them the basic right to go to school. Thus, child labour has a negative impact on children's health and safety as well as their education. Children who work as children are denied the opportunity to attend school, which perpetuates intergenerational cycles of poverty. Child labor poses a significant obstacle to education, hurting both attendance and academic achievement. both awareness and education. Child labor can be avoided by educating others about its negative impacts, especially business leaders and employers. Discuss with them how child labour affects children's physical and emotional health, as well as how it can effect their future. Additionally, let them know what the laws and punishments are.

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most white southerners expected the postwar south would ______.

Most white Southerners anticipated the postwar South to stay basically intact and to continue prewar social and economic structures, such as racial segregation and African American subjugation.

This was evident in the opposition to Reconstruction efforts as well as the adoption of discriminatory laws and practices such as the Black Codes and Jim Crow legislation. White Southerners believed in preserving their traditional ways of life as well as the white population's political, social, and economic domination .Most white Southerners anticipated the postwar South to stay basically intact and to continue prewar social and economic structures, such as racial segregation and African American subjugation. These expectations slowed progress toward actual equality and justice for African Americans in the South.

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Which of the following were developed during the transportation revolution of the 1800s? O A. Bicycles and horse-drawn carriages • B. Canals and railroads O c. Submarines and subways • D. Airplanes and helicopters

Explanation:

A transportation infrastructure rapidly took shape in the 1800s as American investors and the government began building roads, turnpikes, canals, and railroads.

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What majorn events happened during Andrew Jackson presidency?

Major events happened during Andrew Jackson presidency were Trial of Tears and the Nullification Crisis.

During Andrew Jackson's presidency, which lasted from 1829 to 1837, several major events occurred. One of the most notable was the forced relocation of Native American tribes from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States, known as the Trail of Tears . This resulted in the deaths of thousands of indigenous people. Another significant event was the Nullification Crisis , in which South Carolina threatened to secede from the Union over a tariff dispute.

Additionally, the Bank War occurred, in which Jackson vetoed the renewal of the charter for the Second Bank of the United States, leading to economic instability. Jackson also signed the Indian Removal Act, which led to the forced relocation of tens of thousands of Native Americans from their ancestral lands in the southeastern United States to Indian Territory west of the Mississippi River.Jackson also played a key role in promoting the idea of manifest destiny which lead to the annexation of Texas, Oregon and California which were not a part of USA.

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how many people died during the salem witch trials?

25 innocent men, women and children died in Salem witch trial performed in 1692. The following people were hanged: Mary Easty, Alice Parker, Mary Parker, Ann Pudeator, Wilmot Redd, Margaret Scott, and Samuel Wardwell.

The primary period of witchcraft persecutions, which lasted from the 1427–36 Savoy witch hunts (in the western Alps) through the death of Anna Goldi in the Swiss canton of Glarus in 1782, saw the execution of between 30,000 and 60,000 persons. For situations where there are no records, these numbers also include approximations.

The last witch burning in Scotland occurred in 1727, putting an end to one of the most violent periods in its history. The last witch burning in Scotland occurred in 1727, putting an end to one of the most violent periods in its history.

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identify key characteristics of the french and dutch colonies.

The key characteristics of the french and dutch colonies was that both colonies were primarily trading posts for furs.

French colonies :

Dutch colonies :

However, while both failed to attract many colonists from their respective home countries, these outposts nonetheless intensified imperial rivalries in North America. Both the Dutch and the French relied on native peoples to harvest the pelts that proved profitable in Europe.

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The ideas of english philosopher john locke had a major influence on the writers of the declaration of independence. which one of locke's basic principles later seen in the declaration of independence is expressed in the quote? "All mankind . . . being all equal and independent, no one ought to harm another in his life, health, liberty or possessions." - John Locke, "The Second Treatise of Civil Government," 1690 A) separation of powers B) checks and balances C)freedom of religion D) unalienable rights

the Virginia Plan called for two house legislature true or false (if false rewrite it to make it true)

It is true that Virginia Plan called for the two house legislature.

The Virginia Plan was put forward to the United States Constitutional Convention as a supreme national government with three departments and a bicameral legislature. James Madison drafted the idea while he awaited the formation of a quorum at the 1787 Constitutional Convention . The Virginia Plan became well-known for its involvement in establishing the broad subject matter for discussion during the Convention and, in particular, for introducing the idea of population-weighted representation in the envisioned federal assembly. Madison was equally anxious to avoid a dictatorship of the majority. The divisions within society, such those between creditors and debtors, the wealthy and the poor, or between farmers, merchants, and manufacturers , required the government to preserve its independence from these many factions or interest groups.

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william patterson of new jersey helped to fight for the rights of which type of state?

William Patterson was the co-creator of the New Jersey (or Paterson) Plan that declared the privileges of the little states by proposing a public lawmaking body that, disregarding contrasts in size and populace, gave an equivalent voice to every one of the states .

Paterson presented the New Jersey Plan, which required a unicameral body with an equivalent portrayal from each state. In the discussion that followed, the agents worked out the Incomparable Split difference, with the corresponding portrayal in the place of Delegates .

William Paterson did for sure help the Bill of Privileges however not in a similar way as troublemakers like Patrick Henry. As a resident of a more modest state (New Jersey), he contended energetically to ensure that state freedoms were completely safeguarded while in the Sacred Show.

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why in 1882, congress passed legislation to exclude immigrants from ?

Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act despite the fact that the Chinese made up only 0.002 percent of the country's population in order to appease labor demands and allay worries about preserving white racial purity.

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was the first significant statute imposing restrictions on immigration to the US. Many Americans on the West Coast blamed Chinese employees for the economy's difficulties and declining wages .

The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 , intended to stop the influx of Chinese immigrants into the United States—particularly California—suspended Chinese immigration for ten years and barred Chinese immigrants from becoming citizens.

On May 6, 1882, President Chester A. Arthur authorized its enactment. Chinese Americans who had previously immigrated to the country attempted to have the discriminatory practices declared unconstitutional, but were unsuccessful.

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union general who led the northern forces to victory in the war

The union general who guided the northern armies to victory in the American Civil War was Ulysses S. Grant. A civil war in the United States, the American Civil War.

In the American Civil War, Union commander Ulysses S. Grant led the northern armies to victory. He was a superb military tactician who saw how crucial it was to coordinate the army and navy of the Union to win the war. One of the most successful military leaders of his period, Grant was known for his dogged pursuit of the Confederate army and dedication to the goal of maintaining the Union . His victory in the Battle of Appomattox Courthouse in April 1865 had a crucial role in the Civil War's eventual conclusion. He went on to become the 18th President of the United States, holding office for two terms from 1869 and 1877.

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in 1879, the united states went off the gold standard to help debt-ridden farmers. TRUE OR FALSE

In 1879, the united states went off the gold standard to help debt - ridden farmers is a false statment.

A required to pay cash or some other did agree commodity to a third party, the lender is known as a debt . Debt differs from an approved vendor in that payments are postponed or made in installments .

In order to aid indebted farmers, the United States abandoned the gold standard in 1879. The Social Gospel movement was created as a means of reshaping Protestant churches .

This was by increasing their popularity in underprivileged urban areas and raising their consciousness of the social evils of the day.

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what are some of the significant complaints of (i) the third estate, (ii) the clergy, and (iii) the nobility?

The Third Estate had complaints about lack of representation, the Clergy had complaints about lack of political power , and the Nobility had complaints about lack of power and representation.

(i) The Third Estate had a number of significant complaints, including their lack of representation in the government, the unfair taxation system, and the lack of social and economic opportunities.

(ii) The Clergy had a number of complaints as well, such as their lack of political power, the vast amounts of wealth that the church possessed, and the undue influence of the church in political matters.

(iii) The Nobility had a number of complaints, such as their lack of power and representation in the government, the privileges they enjoyed that were not available to other classes, and the restrictions placed on their ability to participate in the political process .

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What is significant about the ending of Macbeth?

At the end of the play, Macbeth's severed head is brought to Malcolm by Macduff, proof that Macbeth has been overthrown, and that Scotland is now Malcom's to rule.

The ending of Macbeth is significant because it marks the resolution of the central conflict and the restoration of order to Scotland.

The title character, Macbeth , has risen to power via oppression and brutality but ultimately falls because of his ambition and shame. A nobleman named Macduff's army confronts Macbeth in the play's last scene, and the two fight valiantly . Given that he has been assured that no male born of a woman can ever overcome him, Macbeth first appears to be indestructible. But Macduff explains that he wasn't actually "born of a woman" because he was delivered by Caesarean section . The conflict results in Macbeth's death, and Scotland regains its normalcy. Because it emphasises the effects of unrestrained ambition and the value of justice and revenge, Macbeth's conclusion is significant.

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why did jefferson call the election of 1800 a peaceful revolution?

believing that his win meant that political and cultural change could occur in the new nation without resorting to violence or bloodshed.

What did Lewis say would happen if the disobeyed the “Great Father”? Why do you think he said this?

The founding father was Thomas Jefferson, who had just acquired from France a half-billion-acre tract of land between the Mississippi River and the Rocky Mountains. Jefferson served as president of the newly formed United States.

Ironically, Lewis left a peace medal around the neck of the Piegan Indian, who was killed by Reuben Field on July 17, 1806, in northwest Montana while acting in self-defense, so that the victim's tribesmen would know who was to blame.

His pre-university stint in World War I only served to reaffirm his atheism because the pain he had seen and felt appeared incommensurable with the presence of a good God. Since he was about 15 years old, Lewis has had a deep desire to:

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where on the political spectrum was archduke ferdinand?

A constrictive conservatism influenced Franz Ferdinand's political beliefs. This made the archduke the complete antithesis of the liberal Crown Prince Rudolf.

Franz Ferdinand was a staunch opponent of democracy and a clericalist who also opposed the industrial age, middle-class parliamentarianism , and modernist trends. The heir apparent stood in for traditional, mediaeval Austria. Franz Ferdinand maintained a very aristocratic lifestyle, which was evident in his enthusiasm for hunting. He had a classic Habsburg enthusiasm, and the excitement of the hunt had almost become pathological in him.

The scrupulously kept hunting ledgers of Franz Ferdinand, which number 274,511 kills, attest to his reputation as the Habsburg emperor with the most frequent use of the firearm. His palaces had thick collections of hunting trophies lining the walls. His preferred country residence in Konopit, Bohemia, came to represent his pro-Slavic political aspirations. The archduke was well-liked in Bohemia but was not well-liked at the court in Vienna because he was viewed as ambitious, challenging, irascible, and lacking in diplomatic skills.

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What tactics did the Irish Republican Army use?

The Irish Republican Army (IRA) is a paramilitary organization that has existed in various forms throughout Irish history, with the goal of achieving a united, independent Ireland free from British rule. The organization has employed a number of tactics in pursuit of this goal.

One tactic used by the Irish Republican Army was guerrilla warfare. This involved small, mobile units carrying out surprise attacks on British military and government targets. These attacks were typically aimed at causing disruption and weakening the British presence in Ireland.

Another tactic used by the Irish Republican Army was urban terrorism. This involved carrying out bombings and shootings in cities, often targeting civilians and government officials. These attacks were intended to spread fear and create chaos, and to pressure the British government to withdraw from Ireland.

The Irish Republican Army also used propaganda and social mobilization as a tactic to gain support for their cause among the Irish population. This included publishing newspapers and pamphlets, giving speeches and rallies, and using social media to spread their message.

Finally, the Irish Republican Army also used the tactic of political negotiations. They attempted to achieve their goals through diplomatic and political means, such as participating in negotiations with the British government and other political parties.

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native american religious beliefs and practices included?

Individual Native American tribes and even small bands are described by early European explorers as having their own religious rituals .

Native American culture places a high emphasis on coexistence with nature, the ability to endure pain, respect for and non-interference with others, and a deep conviction that people are essentially good and deserving of respect for their choices. Such beliefs make people and families in need extremely hesitant to ask for assistance.

Wakan-Tanka, the sacred mystery, vision quests to find enlightenment and guidance, numerous ceremonies and dances to honor spirits and for other purposes, and ceremonies that incorporate many symbols of their faiths are just a few examples of the diverse collection of unusual religions , beliefs , and practices .

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What is the term for a senes of statements expressing a political party's core beliefs and its positions on various issues?

The correct answer is Platform i.e., A platform is the term for a sense of statements expressing a political party's core beliefs and its positions on various issues.

A written declaration of an organization's intents, objectives, or goals is referred to as a policy statement. Policy statements can also be considered organizational-level texts that outline proper actions to take in specific circumstances .

A corporation may publish a report or news release titled "Social Impact Statement," which is sometimes referred to as a "Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Statement," outlining the actions it has done to raise the social and environmental standards of its business operations.

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Does the text provide data to support the conclusion that wealth was evenly distributed among social classes in the late 19th century? Explain.

The 19th century used to be a innovative length for European records and a time of great transformation in all spheres of life. Human and civil rights, democracy and nationalism, industrialisation and free market systems, all ushered in a duration of change and chance.

The phrase " popular culture" used to be coined in the 19th century or earlier. Traditionally, popular subculture used to be associated with poor schooling and with the decrease classes, as adverse to the "official culture" and greater education of the upper classes.

21st Century

By extrapolation, the 20th century consists of the years AD 1901-2000. Therefore , the twenty first century will commence with 1 January 2001 and continue via 31 December 2100.  

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why did peter the great build the city of st. petersburg?

The reason why Peter the Great built St. Petersburg is because Peter wanted a city on a seaport that would make it easier to travel to the west.

Founded in 1703, St. Petersburg is a city founded by Peter the Great . The tsar himself helped to build the fortress of the city.

Peter the Great wanted a city that would make it easier to travel to the west. Not only was it meant to be a port as well as a navy on the Baltic Sea, but also a city that looked European and lived according to European standards. The area around the city was previously known as Ingria (Ingermanland), and it was largely populated by Finns.

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How to Write a Bibliography [Tips with Examples]

Going through the process of writing a report as a student often feels like being thrown into the deep end without a map. While you're typically given a sample report to follow, it rarely provides the systematic guidance needed to tackle the task effectively. This lack of structured support can leave you feeling confused and unsure where to begin.

The same challenge extends to writing bibliographies. Without clear instructions, understanding how to compile and format references can be daunting. In this guide, I aim to demystify the art of how to write a bibliography, offering step-by-step instructions and additional tips to help you navigate this essential aspect of academic writing with confidence.

What is a Bibliography?

A bibliography serves as a crucial component of academic writing, which includes a detailed list of all sources consulted during research. It not only validates the credibility of your work but also aids readers in retracing your steps to verify facts, data, and insights you've presented. Here’s more on what’s the purpose of bibliographies and what does it include:

Purpose of a Bibliography:

A bibliography supports academic integrity by:

Demonstrating thorough research conducted for the assignment.

Crediting original authors for their contributions.

Enabling readers to locate and explore cited sources independently.

Providing a foundation for future scholars to build upon your research.

Components of a Bibliography:

Citation Details: Includes the author's name, title of the work, publication details (like publisher and year), and specific pages or chapters referenced.

Formatting: Follows specific style guides (e.g., MLA, APA, Chicago Manual of Style) for consistency and clarity.

Organizational Structure: Typically arranged alphabetically by author’s last name or chronologically for historical works.

Annotations (in annotated bibliographies): Brief evaluations summarizing each source’s relevance, scope, and potential bias.

Categories of Bibliographies:

Enumerative Bibliography: Lists sources categorically, such as by author or topic, without additional commentary.

Analytical Bibliography: Explores the physical attributes and evolution of a work, including details like publication history and format changes.

Annotated Bibliography: Provides annotations explaining each source's significance, aiding in understanding its relevance to the research topic.

Subject Bibliography: Organizes sources by subject matter, facilitating research within specific fields or disciplines.

National Bibliography: Compiles works published within a specific country or region, often including cultural or historical contexts.

How to Write a Bibliography Step by Step?

Learning how to write a bibliography is a crucial skill in academics. It's all about giving credit where it's due - acknowledging the sources you've used in your research. Whether you're crafting an essay bibliography or a reference list for a longer paper, the basics remain the same.

In this section, we'll explore these core elements of bibliography writing. By understanding these basics, you'll be equipped to create accurate citations regardless of the specific format required. A well-crafted bibliography not only prevents plagiarism but also demonstrates the depth of your research. So, let's have a look at the basics of how to write a bibliography for essays or research papers.

Step 1: Gather Your Resources

First things first, let's round up all the materials you've used for your research. This includes:

Books: Whether they're physical copies or e-books, make sure you've got them all listed.

Articles: This covers journal articles, magazine pieces, and newspaper reports.

Websites: Any online sources you've referenced should be included.

Other media: Don't forget about videos, podcasts, or interviews you might have used.

Maintain an ongoing list of sources as you research—it'll simplify your work later on!

Step 2: Record Citation Information

Now, here's where the real work begins. For each source, you'll need to jot down:

Author(s): Full names, please!

Title of the work: Whether it's a book title, article name, or website header.

Publication date: When was this information made available?

Publisher: Who put this information out there?

Page numbers: If you're using a physical book or a PDF with page numbers.

URL and access date: For online sources, note when you accessed the information.

Here's a quick example of what bibliographies for different sources might look like:

For a book:

Author: Jane Smith

Title: The Art of Bibliography Writing

Publication Date: 2022

Publisher: Academic Press

Pages:56-58

For a website:

Author: John Doe

Title: "10 Tips for Perfect Citations"

Publication Date: March 15, 2023

URL: www.citationtips.com

Accessed: July 17, 2024

Step 3: Format Your Bibliography

Next, we need to consider the formatting requirements. Remember, each academic style may have different formatting demands, but they all adhere to the same general rules:

Alphabetical order:

Arrange entries by the author's last name.

For works without an author, use the title (ignoring articles like "A," "An," or "The" at the beginning).

Hanging indent :

Set a hanging indent of 0.5 inches (1.27 cm) for each entry.

The first line of each entry should be flush left, with subsequent lines indented.

Double-space the entire bibliography for most styles.

Some styles may require single spacing within entries and double spacing between them.

Consistency:

Use the same punctuation, capitalization, and formatting throughout.

Pay attention to details like italicization and quotation marks.

Speaking of styles, there are several to choose from, and the one you use often depends on your field of study or your instructor's preference. The most common are:

APA (American Psychological Association)

MLA (Modern Language Association)

Don't worry – we'll look into each of these academic styles in the upcoming sections where we'll discuss the formatting requirements for each style in detail, along with a few examples to help you understand how to format a bibliography according to different academic styles!

Bibliographies in any format often involve formatting risks, especially when converting to PDF. That's why I'll demonstrate WPS Office to you, where not only will my formatting remain preserved, but it's also the ideal office suite for students. It offers free capabilities and is easily navigable

How to Write a Bibliography in APA Format?

APA (American Psychological Association) format is widely used in social sciences. Before we dive into examples, let's review the key formatting requirements:

APA Formatting Requirements:

Title the page "References" centered at the top.

Double-space all entries.

Use a hanging indent for each entry (first line flush left, subsequent lines indented 0.5 inches).

Alphabetize entries by the author's last name.

For multiple works by the same author, order chronologically from earliest to most recent.

Use only the initials for authors' first and middle names.

Now, let's look at how to cite different types of sources:

Author's last name, first initial. (Publication date). Book title. Additional information. City of publication: Publishing company.

Gladwell, M. (2008). Outliers: The story of success. Little, Brown and Company.

Journal Articles:

Author's Last Name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (Year). Title of article. Name of Journal, Volume(Issue), Page range. DOI if available

Krueger, R. F., & Markon, K. E. (2006). Reinterpreting comorbidity: A model-based approach to understanding and classifying psychopathology. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 2, 111-133. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.2.022305.095213

Author's Last Name, First Initial. Middle Initial. (Year, Month Day). Title of page. Website Name. URL

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 5). COVID-19 vaccination clinical and professional resources. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/index.html

How to Write a Bibliography in MLA Format?

MLA (Modern Language Association) format is commonly used in humanities. Let's review the formatting requirements:

Formatting Requirements:

Title the page "Works Cited" centered at the top.

If no author is given, alphabetize by the title, ignoring articles (A, An, The).

Use the full first name of authors, not just initials.

Now, these are some ways on how to cite different types of sources:

Author's Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Publisher, Year of Publication.

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Penguin Classics, 2002.

Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Name of Journal, vol. Volume Number, no. Issue Number, Year of Publication, pp. Page Range.

Poe, Edgar Allan. "The Philosophy of Composition." Graham's Magazine, vol. 28, no. 4, 1846, pp. 163-167.

Author's Last Name, First Name. "Title of Web Page." Name of Website, Date of Publication or Last Update, URL. Accessed Day Month Year.

Hollmichel, Stefanie. "The Reading Brain: Differences between Digital and Print." So Many Books, 25 Apr. 2013, somanybooksblog.com/2013/04/25/the-reading-brain-differences-between-digital-and-print/. Accessed 4 May 2023.

How to Write a Bibliography in Chicago Format?

Chicago style has two systems: notes and bibliography (used in humanities) and author-date (used in sciences and social sciences). We'll focus on the notes and bibliography system. First, the formatting requirements:

Title the page "Bibliography" centered at the top.

Single-space each entry, with a blank line between entries.

Here’s how you can cite different types of sources in Chicago format:

Last Name, First Name. Title of Book. Place of Publication: Publisher, Year of Publication.

Hemingway, Ernest. The Old Man and the Sea. New York: Scribner, 1952.

Last Name, First Name. "Title of Article." Name of Journal Volume Number, no. Issue Number (Year of Publication): Page Range.

Sontag, Susan. "Against Interpretation." Evergreen Review 34 (1964): 76-84.

Last Name, First Name. "Title of Web Page." Name of Website. Publishing Organization, Publication or Modified Date. URL.

Kenzie, Susan. "The Elements of Chicago Style." Writing Resources. University of Chicago, last modified March 23, 2022. https://writingresources.uchicago.edu/chicago-style-elements .

How to Write a Bibliography in Harvard Format?

Harvard referencing style is commonly used in the UK and Australia. Let's review the formatting requirements:

Title the page "Reference List" or "References" centered at the top.

You can site different type of sources in the following ways in Harvard format:

Author's Last name, Initial(s). (Year) Title of book. Edition (if not first edition). Place of publication: Publisher.

Hawking, S. (1988) A brief history of time. London: Bantam Books.

Author's Last name, Initial(s). (Year) 'Title of article', Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page range.

Boughton, J.M. (2002) 'The Bretton Woods proposal: an in-depth look', Political Science Quarterly, 42(6), pp. 564-578.

Author's Last name, Initial(s). (Year) Title of web page. Available at: URL (Accessed: Day Month Year).

BBC News (2023) Climate change: Scientists warn of 'irreversible' impacts. Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-51742646 (Accessed: 17 July 2023).

Bonus Tips: Using WPS to Perfect your Bibliography

WPS Office is a golden ticket for academic success, especially for students navigating the intricacies of bibliography writing. Often, students struggle with formatting details, but WPS AI steps in as a reliable assistant, ensuring seamless document preparation.

1.Convert Word to PDF without Losing Format

One of WPS Office's standout features is its ability to convert Word documents to PDF flawlessly. Unlike Microsoft Word, which can sometimes disrupt formatting, WPS Office ensures that your meticulously formatted bibliographies in APA, MLA, or Chicago style are preserved without any loss of structure or design. This reliability is crucial as it saves students valuable time and effort, allowing them to focus on the content rather than technical adjustments.

2.Check the Format & Spelling

WPS AI goes beyond formatting; it also checks for spelling and grammar errors with precision. This feature guarantees that your bibliographies are not only visually polished but also linguistically flawless. Students can rest assured that their academic work meets the highest standards of clarity and correctness, enhancing both their academic credibility and professional presentation skills.

1. What is annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a collection of sources that provides a summary of research related to a specific topic. It includes a list of citations for each source, accompanied by a brief descriptive text (an annotation) that summarizes and evaluates the content. This annotation helps readers understand the source's relevance and usefulness. An annotated bibliography can function as a standalone assignment or be incorporated as part of a larger research project.

2. How can I cite without author name or date?

If the source lacks an author or date, incorporate the title into your signal phrase or within parentheses, using the abbreviation "n.d." (for "no date"). Another study focusing on students and their research choices found that those who received tutoring achieved success ("Tutoring and APA," n.d.).

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how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

The Guide to Literature Reviews

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

  • What is a Literature Review?
  • The Purpose of Literature Reviews
  • Guidelines for Writing a Literature Review
  • How to Organize a Literature Review?
  • Software for Literature Reviews
  • Using Artificial Intelligence for Literature Reviews
  • How to Conduct a Literature Review?
  • Common Mistakes and Pitfalls in a Literature Review
  • Methods for Literature Reviews
  • What is a Systematic Literature Review?
  • What is a Narrative Literature Review?
  • What is a Descriptive Literature Review?
  • What is a Scoping Literature Review?
  • What is a Realist Literature Review?
  • What is a Critical Literature Review?
  • Meta Analysis vs. Literature Review
  • What is an Umbrella Literature Review?
  • Differences Between Annotated Bibliographies and Literature Reviews
  • Literature Review vs. Theoretical Framework

Introduction

How to write a literature review step-by-step guide, important tips when writing a literature review, common errors when writing literature reviews.

  • How to Structure a Literature Review?
  • How to Make a Cover Page for a Literature Review?
  • How to Write an Abstract for a Literature Review?
  • How to Write a Literature Review Introduction?
  • How to Write the Body of a Literature Review?
  • How to Write a Literature Review Conclusion?
  • How to Make a Literature Review Bibliography?
  • How to Format a Literature Review?
  • How Long Should a Literature Review Be?
  • Examples of Literature Reviews
  • How to Present a Literature Review?
  • How to Publish a Literature Review?

How to Write a Literature Review?

A literature review is integral to academic research, serving as a pillar for understanding and contextualizing your study within the broader field. The importance of a literature review cannot be overstated, as it demonstrates your grasp of existing research and highlights the contributions and gaps that your work aims to address. By meticulously analyzing and synthesizing existing literature, you provide a comprehensive overview that informs and strengthens your research.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

Literature reviews come in various forms and serve different purposes depending on the research study. Sometimes, a literature review serves as an introduction to a larger research paper or thesis. This type of review sets the stage for your study by summarizing existing research, identifying gaps, and establishing the relevance of your research question . It provides the necessary background that supports your hypothesis and justifies the need for your study.

In other instances, a literature review may be a standalone paper, dedicated entirely to summarizing and critically evaluating existing research on a particular topic. This form of literature review is common in fields where a comprehensive understanding and synthesis of existing knowledge are necessary. Standalone literature reviews are valuable for identifying trends, evaluating methodologies, and suggesting areas for future research. They serve as authoritative sources that scholars and practitioners can reference to gain insights into the current state of research on a specific topic.

Regardless of the type, a well-written literature review requires careful planning, thorough research, and clear organization. It involves identifying relevant literature, summarizing key findings, critically evaluating the studies, and presenting the information coherently and logically.

When writing literature reviews, it is essential to follow a structured sequence to ensure clarity, coherence, and thorough analysis. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the reviewing literature process effectively:

Write the body of the literature review first. This is where you gather, summarize, and synthesize the research findings from relevant articles, scholarly articles, and cultural sources theoretical. Organize your sources by themes, chronology, or methodology, and critically analyze the literature. Ensure your literature review writing includes well-structured paragraphs and addresses recurring central themes. Critically evaluate the research methods and key concepts, providing a coherent whole analysis of the literature related to your research topic. This section should show your understanding of the existing literature and highlight the gaps your research aims to fill.

Next, you can write the introduction. After you have a good grasp of the content from writing the body, you can effectively introduce the topic, provide necessary background information, state the research question and explain the significance of the review. This section should set the stage for the literature review section and contextualize your literature search within the broader field. Mention how most research papers rely on a thorough literature review to establish a foundation.

Write the conclusion after the body and introduction are complete. Summarize the key findings from the body, reiterate the importance of the topic, discuss the implications for your own research, and suggest areas for further research. Highlight how your literature review contributes to understanding the research topic and what future studies could explore. This is where you emphasize the need for further research based on the gaps identified in the literature.

The abstract is usually written last and it is a concise summary of your entire literature review, so it is easiest to write once all other sections are complete. Include the main themes or trends discussed, the scope of the literature reviewed, and a brief statement of your conclusions. This will provide a snapshot of your literature review for readers.

Bibliography

Compile your reference list as you go, but finalize it after completing the main sections of your literature review to ensure all sources are correctly cited and formatted according to the required citation style. Include an annotated bibliography if needed, summarizing and evaluating each source. This section is crucial for acknowledging other researchers and providing readers with a trail to follow for their own literature search. Ensure you have relevant sources and that the bibliography is comprehensive and well-organized.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

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Writing a literature review can be a daunting task, but by following some essential tips, you can create a coherent, insightful, and well-organized review. Here are some useful strategies to guide you through the process:

Define your research purpose

Understanding the purpose of your literature review is crucial. Clearly articulate what you aim to achieve. Whether it’s to provide an overview of the current state of research, identify gaps, or support your own research, having a clear purpose will guide your writing and ensure you stay focused.

Organize your sources

Before diving into writing, organize your sources. Group them by themes, methodologies, or chronologies. This will help you create a logical structure for your review and make it easier to draw connections between different studies.

Use a clear structure

A well-structured literature review typically includes an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, set the stage by explaining the scope and purpose of your review. The body should discuss the sources in a structured manner, while the conclusion summarizes the key findings and their significance.

Summarize and synthesize

Summarize the main points of each source, but also synthesize the information to show how the sources relate to each other. Highlight common findings, differences, and gaps in the literature. This synthesis will demonstrate your understanding of the field and how the studies interconnect.

Critically evaluate

Go beyond mere summarization and critically evaluate the sources. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the studies and their methodologies. This critical evaluation shows your analytical skills and a deep understanding of the topic, providing valuable insights for your readers.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

Be objective

Maintain an objective tone throughout your review. Present different perspectives without personal bias. Being objective enhances the credibility of your review and shows that you have thoroughly considered all relevant research.

Use transitions

Ensure your review flows logically by using transition words and phrases. This will help connect your ideas and make it easier for the reader to follow your argument. Good transitions enhance the overall coherence of your review.

Cite your sources

Properly cite all the sources you reference in your review. Use a consistent citation style as required by your field or assignment guidelines. Accurate citations not only give credit to original authors but also strengthen your review’s academic integrity.

Consider writing annotations

Creating an annotated bibliography can be a valuable tool for organizing your sources and synthesizing the information. Summarize each source’s main points and critically analyze how they contribute to your research. An annotated bibliography can enhance your ability to identify gaps and establish a clear direction for your research.

Instead of relying heavily on direct quotes, paraphrase the information from your sources. Paraphrasing demonstrates your understanding and allows you to integrate the information smoothly into your review, maintaining your unique voice.

Revise and edit

After completing your draft, take time to revise and edit. Look for clarity, coherence, and conciseness. Check for grammatical errors and ensure that your citations are accurate. Editing is a crucial step in producing a polished and professional literature review.

Seek feedback

If possible, seek feedback from peers or mentors. They can provide valuable insights and help you improve your review. Constructive feedback can highlight areas you might have overlooked and enhance the quality of your final draft.

Stay current

Include the most recent research on your topic to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge. Staying current ensures your review is relevant and reflects the latest developments in your field.

By following these tips, you can write a well-structured and insightful literature review that effectively summarizes and evaluates the existing research on your topic. This approach will not only make your review more engaging and informative but also enhance your credibility as a researcher.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

When writing a literature review, it is easy to make certain common errors that can undermine the quality of your work. One common mistake is a lack of focus . Ensure your literature review has a clear focus and is not too broad. The narrower your topic, the more in-depth your review can be. This specificity allows you to provide a detailed analysis of the selected studies and avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer volume of available research.

Insufficient critical evaluation is another frequent issue. Simply summarizing sources is not enough. You need to critically evaluate the literature, comparing and contrasting different studies and identifying strengths, weaknesses, and gaps. This critical analysis demonstrates your understanding of the topic and your ability to engage with the existing research.

Poor organization can also detract from the effectiveness of your literature review. Organize your review logically, using headings and subheadings to guide the reader and ensure each section flows smoothly into the next. A well-structured review is easier to follow and more persuasive.

Inconsistent citation style is a common error that can confuse readers and detract from the professionalism of your review. Be consistent with your citation style throughout your review, ensuring all sources are properly cited to avoid plagiarism. This consistency makes it easier for readers to locate your sources.

A good literature review helps refine your research question, identifies key concepts, and ensures that you are building on a solid foundation of existing knowledge. By gathering and analyzing peer-reviewed articles and other credible sources, you can develop a comprehensive understanding of the literature related to your topic. This process includes evaluating research methods and critically analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of each source.

Ultimately, a well-structured literature review is integral to the research process. It demonstrates your ability to engage deeply with existing research, synthesize relevant sources, and provide a coherent analysis of the literature related to your research question.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

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How to Cite a Picture Using a Good MLA style in a Proper Way

July 23, 2024

Having decided to write a paper or an assignment, you may hesitate whether your paper’s topic, main statement, structure, and format are appropriate. The last issue is even more important as it creates a positive or a negative image of your work and lets your reader appreciate or neglect the paper. This article is to teach you how to cite a picture in an MLA style document being extremely professional with the topic.

How to Cite a Picture in Powerpoint Using a Proper MLA Style

Every writer has a right to inlude it to make his or her essay more engaging. If you question yourself: “How to cite a picture in MLA ?”, this article is for you.

  • In-Text references: if you refer to a picture in a research paper, the best practice is to incorporate an in-text citation for it  (and obviously, incorporate its full reference with your Works Cited)
  • If you are really reproducing a picture in your document, it is up to you whether to accompany it with an in-text citation or with the full reference. Both options are good. If you decide to include only an in-text citation in your paper, you should also include a full citation for the image with your Works Cited

That was the answer to the frequently asked question: “How to cite a picture in powerpoint MLA?”  Are you still not sure how to get acquainted with in-text references and which way of citation to use? Follow our next tips below.

  • Full citations: do not worry about how to cite a picture in MLA format from a website. We have a response for you. The full citation is one of the ways out. This kind of citation is good as well

Of course, all of that should be in a presented order only. Many images on the web are not connected with any collection, therefore, you can skip that step fully. If the object appears in your paper cited fully below, it does not need to be included in the Bibliography List.

How to Cite a Picture in MLA Format

Still not satisfied with the answer on how to properly cite a picture in mla format? To create a citation for an image found on the Internet in MLA, you should include the following pieces of information: the name of the creator of the digital image, the title, the title of the website that the image was found on, the names of any other contributors responsible for that digital object, its version and date. Do not forget about URL also.

If it does not have its title, make a description of the image but mention that it is made up. You may ask how to cite a picture in mla from google . Indeed, if it was found via Google Images, do not write that this source is the publisher. Instead, click on it and use the external link, as every image has its home site. Also, do not use “http://” and “https://” when giving a link to a website.

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Examples

Chicago Style Bibliography

Ai generator.

how to write an annotated bibliography step by step mla

When it comes to academic writing and research, citing sources is an essential aspect that demonstrates credibility and integrity. One popular citation style widely used in the humanities is the Chicago Style. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of creating a Chicago Style Bibliography, providing you with valuable examples in PDF format. Whether you’re a student, researcher, or writer, this collection of Chicago Style Bibliography examples will serve as a valuable resource to help you navigate the complexities of proper citation.

1. Chicago Style Citation Bibliography

Chicago Style Citation Bibliography

Size: 558 KB

2. Chicago Style Formatting Bibliography

Chicago Style formatting Bibliography

Size: 129 KB

3. Chicago Style Purdue Owl Bibliography

Chicago Style purdue owl Bibliography

Size: 84 KB

4. Chicago Style Research Paper Bibliography

Chicago Style research paper Bibliography

5. Chicago Style Annotated Bibliography

Chicago Style Annotated Bibliography

Size: 82 KB

6. Chicago Style Footnote Bibliography

Chicago Style Footnote Bibliography

Size: 177 KB

7. Chicago Style Website Bibliography

Chicago Style website Bibliography

Size: 331 KB

8. Chicago Style Bibliography

Chicago Style Bibliography Template

Size: 793 KB

9. Chicago Style Book Bibliography

Chicago Style book Bibliography

Size: 680 KB

10. Chicago Style Journal Article Bibliography

Chicago Style Journal Article Bibliography

Size: 226 KB

11. Chicago Style Essay Bibliography

Chicago Style Essay Bibliography

Size: 118 KB

12. Chicago Style Reference Bibliography

Chicago Style Reference Bibliography

Size: 842 KB

13. Chicago Style Bibliography Rules

Chicago Style Bibliography Rules

Size: 86 KB

14. MLA Chicago Style Bibliography

MLA Chicago Style Bibliography

Size: 241 KB

15. Chicago Style In-Text Bibliography

Chicago Style In Text Bibliography

Size: 290 KB

16. Chicago Style Author Date Bibliography

Chicago Style Author Date Bibliography

Size: 30 KB

17. Chicago Style Works Cited Bibliography

Chicago Style works cited Bibliography

Size: 655 KB

18. Chicago Style Primary Bibliography

Chicago Style primary Bibliography

Size: 416 KB

19. Chicago Style Turabian Bibliography

Chicago Style Turabian Bibliography

Size: 565 KB

20. Chicago Style Full Bibliography

Chicago Style full Bibliography

Size: 274 KB

21. Chicago Style Secondary Bibliography

Chicago Style secondary Bibliography

22. Chicago Style 16th Edition Bibliography

Chicago Style 16th Edition Bibliography

Size: 642 KB

23. Chicago Style Heading Bibliography

Chicago Style heading Bibliography

Size: 165 KB

24. Chicago Style Notes Bibliography

Chicago Style Notes Bibliography

Size: 131 KB

25. Chicago Style Multiple Authors Bibliography

Chicago Style Multiple Authors Bibliography

Size: 108 KB

26. Chicago Style Bibliography System

Chicago Style Bibliography System

Size: 93 KB

27. Paper for Chicago Style Bibliography

Paper for Chicago Style Bibliography

Size: 433 KB

28. Chicago Style Bibliography Quick Guide

Chicago Style Bibliography Quick Guide

Size: 552 KB

29. Simple Chicago Style Bibliography

Simple Chicago Style Bibliography

Size: 111 KB

30. Cheat Sheet Chicago Style Bibliography

Cheat Sheet Chicago Style Bibliography

Size: 167 KB

What is Chicago Style Bibliography

A Chicago Style Bibliography is a comprehensive list of sources used in a research paper or academic work, presented in the Chicago citation style. This citation style is widely used in the humanities, particularly in history, literature, and arts disciplines. The Chicago Format emphasizes the use of footnotes or endnotes in-text, along with a separate bibliography section that provides detailed information about each cited source. It offers a standardized and systematic approach to acknowledging the intellectual contributions of other authors and avoiding plagiarism.

How to Write a Bibliography in Chicago Style

Writing a bibliography in Chicago Style may seem daunting at first, but by following a few simple guidelines, you can master this important skill. In this step-by-step guide, we will break down the process into manageable steps to ensure that your Chicago Style Bibliography is accurate and properly formatted.

Step 1: Gather Your Sources

Before diving into the writing process, gather all the relevant sources you used in your research. This includes books, scholarly articles, websites, interviews, and any other materials consulted.

Step 2: Organize Your Information

For each source, collect the necessary information required for citation. This typically includes the author’s name, publication title, publication date, and page numbers.

Step 3: Choose the Correct Format

Chicago Style offers two main formats for citation: the author-date system and the notes and bibliography system. Determine which format is appropriate for your assignment or follow the guidelines provided by your instructor.

Step 4: Format Your Citations

When using the author-date system, include in-text citations within parentheses, consisting of the author’s last name, publication year, and page number. In the notes and bibliography system, use footnotes or endnotes for in-text citations.

Step 5: Create the Bibliography

In the notes and bibliography system, compile a separate bibliography section at the end of your paper. Organize your sources alphabetically by the author’s last name. Ensure that each entry includes all the required information in the correct format.

What is the difference between a bibliography and a works cited page?

A bibliography in Chicago Style includes all sources consulted during the research process, while a works cited page in AMA format specifically lists only the sources cited within the paper. The Chicago Style bibliography provides a more comprehensive overview of the research process and acknowledges a broader range of sources.

Can I use the Chicago Style for an annotated bibliography?

Yes, the Chicago Style can be used for an annotated bibliography format . Simply follow the standard citation format, and add a concise annotation beneath each entry, summarizing the source’s content and its relevance to your research.

Are there other citation styles similar to Chicago Style?

Yes, other commonly used citation styles include MLA and APA . While each style has its unique guidelines and conventions, the Chicago Style is known for its emphasis on detailed bibliographic information and the use of footnotes or endnotes.

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  5. MLA Annotated Bibliography: Ultimate Guide

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  1. How to write Bibliography || Bibliography for project

  2. BIBLIOGRAPHY

  3. How to Write a Bibliography for a Research Paper?

  4. Annotated Bibliography in MLA formatting

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  6. How to Create an Annotated Bibliography for Your Research Projects?

COMMENTS

  1. MLA Style Annotated Bibliography

    MLA provides guidelines for writing and formatting your annotated bibliography. An example of a typical annotation is shown below. Example of an MLA source annotation. Kenny, Anthony. A New History of Western Philosophy: In Four Parts. Oxford UP, 2010. Broad history of Western philosophy from the ancient Greeks to the present day.

  2. How to Write an Annotated Bibliography

    Write the citation and annotation - When writing your annotation, the complete citation should always come first and the annotation follows. Depending on the type of annotated bibliography you are writing, you will want to include some or all of the following: The purpose of the work; A summary of its content; Information about the author(s)

  3. MLA Annotated Bibliography Examples and Writing Guide

    Step 2: Create the MLA Annotations. Creating the annotation is the pivotal part. This is an annotated bibliography, after all. The first thing to think about is whether this is a summary annotation or evaluative annotation. Per the names, the summary annotation provides a summary while an evaluative annotation evaluates the work.

  4. Writing an Annotated Bibliography

    What is an annotated bibliography? An annotated bibliography is a list of citations for various books, articles, and other sources. The annotated bibliography looks like a Works Cited page but it also includes an annotation after each source cited. Annotated bibliographies are a great research tool.

  5. MLA Annotated Bibliography Format

    The MLA Style Center provides the following guidance for formatting an MLA annotated bibliography: Title your reference page as "Annotated Bibliography" or "Annotated List of Works Cited.". Include annotations after the full, listed reference. Annotations should typically not exceed a single paragraph.

  6. What Is an Annotated Bibliography?

    MLA style. In an MLA style annotated bibliography, the Works Cited entry and the annotation are both double-spaced and left-aligned.. The Works Cited entry has a hanging indent. The annotation itself is indented 1 inch (twice as far as the hanging indent). If there are two or more paragraphs in the annotation, the first line of each paragraph is indented an additional half-inch, but not if ...

  7. How to Write an Annotated Bibliography in MLA Format

    Need to write an annotated bibliography in MLA format for a research paper or essay? In this video, I'll show you how to organize your bibliography and write...

  8. Annotated Bibliography Examples for MLA & APA

    Step 3a: MLA annotated bibliography format. The MLA Style Center and the current edition of the MLA Handbook provide the following guidance for formatting an MLA annotated bibliography: Title your reference page as "Annotated Bibliography" or "Annotated List of Works Cited.". Place each annotation after its reference.

  9. How To

    Create the citation using the MLA Handbook, Ninth Edition. Tools that can help you with this include handouts received in class and in the library. Write the annotation directly below the citation, indented one inch from the start of the entry. Consider the questions below. Keep it short but be very complete.

  10. How to Write an Annotated Bibliography in MLA Format Step-by-Step

    Step 2: Create the Annotation. Creating the annotation is the pivotal part. This is an annotated bibliography after all. The first thing to think about is whether this is a summary annotation or evaluative annotation. Per their names, the summary annotation provides a summary while an evaluative annotation evaluates the work.

  11. MLA Citation Guide (9th Edition): Annotated Bibliography

    An annotated bibliography is a list of citations for various books, articles, and other sources on a topic. The annotated bibliography looks like a Works Cited page but includes an annotation after each source cited. An annotation is a short summary and/or critical evaluation of a source. Annotated bibliographies can be part of a larger ...

  12. Annotated Bibliographies in MLA

    Writing an annotated bibliography is a useful step in the research process because it can help you figure out what your research sources are really saying and how you can use them to support your thesis in a research paper. Scroll down for resources to help you format an Annotated Bibliography in MLA and write annotations for your sources.

  13. The Annotated Bibliography

    What Is an Annotated Bibliography? An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to books, articles, and documents. Each citation is followed by a brief (usually about 150 words) descriptive and evaluative paragraph, the annotation. The purpose of the annotation is to inform the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of the sources ...

  14. Annotated Bibliography Examples & Step-by-Step Writing Guide

    How to Write an Annotated Bibliography Step-by-Step. The creation of an annotated bibliography is a three-step process. It starts with evaluating sources to find the ones that will genuinely make your paper shine. ... MLA Example. An MLA annotated bibliography is the go-to style of high school and college students for language arts and ...

  15. Home

    The creation of an annotated bibliography is a three-step process. It starts with finding and evaluating sources for your paper. Next is choosing the type or category of annotation, then writing the annotation for each different source. The final step is to choose a citation style for the bibliography.

  16. How to Write Annotated Bibliographies : Steps and Examples

    Annotated Bibliography. Basic Steps. Creating an annotated bibliography involves selecting valid sources, summarizing, and evaluating them in relation to a particular research topic. Here are the basic steps to create an annotated bibliography: 1.

  17. How to Create an Annotated Bibliography (MLA)

    A brief explainer video going over how to create an MLA-formatted annotated bibliography. Subscribe to my channel for more helpful videos for both students a...

  18. MLA Annotated Bibliography

    Step 1: Begin with a Proper Heading. To write an MLA annotated bibliography, start by creating a separate page titled "Annotated Bibliography" centered at the top. Use the same font and formatting as your main document, typically 12-point Times New Roman.

  19. Annotated Bibliography Samples

    Some annotations may address all three of these steps. Consider the purpose of your annotated bibliography and/or your instructor's directions when deciding how much information to include in your annotations. Please keep in mind that all your text, including the write-up beneath the citation, must be indented so that the author's last name ...

  20. How to Write an Annotated Bibliography That Works

    Ask your professor about the exact requirements for your assignment. Follow these 3 steps to learn about the basics of how to write an annotated bibliography. Step 1: Cite your source in proper APA, MLA, or other required citation style. Each of your entries will begin with a full bibliographic entry.

  21. How To Write An Annotated Bibliography Step By Step?

    How To Write An Annotated Bibliography Step By Step - more info https://domywriting.com/ apa and mla format help. An annotated bibliography is a list of cita...

  22. How to Write An Annotated Bibliography Step By Step

    3. A summary of your entries. You might be asked to summarize the main arguments of the author, and relate it to your topic. 4. Evaluation of your entries. In my opinion and experience, this serves as a "trademark" of an annotated bibliography. You have to state why your chosen sources are significant to your study.

  23. Find out how to write an annotated bibliography with excellence

    Since we have already learned the most about what an annotated bib format looks like, let's move on to the steps you must take to create your personal annotated page. 5 steps to write an annotated bibliography Before you start with any type of writing, you must take the following obligatory steps: Step 1: Choosing relevant sources.

  24. What Is An Annotated Bibliography MLA?

    An annotated bibliography MLA is a list of sources such as books, articles, and documents and provides a brief description and evaluation of each source. An annotated bibliography MLA is a great way to keep track of your sources and cite them correctly.. An annotated bibliography MLA includes a citation followed by a brief description and/or evaluation of the source.

  25. How to Write a Bibliography [Tips with Examples]

    Going through the process of writing a report as a student often feels like being thrown into the deep end without a map. While you're typically given a sample report to follow, it rarely provides the systematic guidance needed to tackle the task effectively. This lack of structured support can leave you feeling confused and unsure where to begin.

  26. How to Write a Literature Review

    Creating an annotated bibliography can be a valuable tool for organizing your sources and synthesizing the information. Summarize each source's main points and critically analyze how they contribute to your research. An annotated bibliography can enhance your ability to identify gaps and establish a clear direction for your research. Paraphrase

  27. How to Cite a Picture Using a Good MLA style in a Proper Way

    Many images on the web are not connected with any collection, therefore, you can skip that step fully. If the object appears in your paper cited fully below, it does not need to be included in the Bibliography List. How to Cite a Picture in MLA Format. Still not satisfied with the answer on how to properly cite a picture in mla format?

  28. Chicago Style Bibliography

    Discover 29+ Chicago Style Bibliography Examples in PDF, and master the art of proper citation. From the definition of Chicago Style Bibliography to a step-by-step guide, FAQs, and creative conclusion, this article provides valuable insights for academic writers. Enhance your research papers with accurate citations and explore additional resources like the 16+ Chicago Citation Examples in PDF ...