what is annotated bibliography assignment

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.

Common Writing Assignments. Annotated Bibliographies. Definitions. A bibliography is a list of sources (books, journals, Web sites, periodicals, etc.) one has used for researching a topic. Bibliographies are sometimes called "References" or "Works Cited" depending on the style format you are using.

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.

Learn how to create an annotated bibliography in MLA style, with guidelines for formatting, length, and content of annotations. See examples of descriptive, evaluative, and reflective annotations for different types of sources.

What is an annotated bibliography? 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.

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.

Annotated bibliographies are sometimes a requirement in assignments, so it’s a good idea to learn their rules. Below, we explain how to write an annotated bibliography in APA, MLA, and Chicago formats. We even include an annotated bibliography example for each.

Learn what an annotated bibliography is, why it is useful for researchers, and how to write one in different citation styles. Find examples, tips, and tools for creating effective annotations that summarize, evaluate, and connect your sources.

Writing an Annotated Bibliography. Learn how to write and format an annotated bibliography in APA Style (7th ed.). Conducting research and documenting your findings is an essential part of the academic writing process.

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.