Annotated Bibliographies

Annotated Bibliographies: What are they, and how do I compile one?

An annotated bibliography is a list of complete, accurate citations to books, journal or encyclopedia articles, Web sites, interviews, or other sources. Each citation should be followed by an annotation. The annotation is a brief, carefully written paragraph that evaluates and describes the source, and its usefulness for your research.

How to compile an annotated bibliography:

• Determine which aspects of your topic will be covered in the bibliography.
• Ask your instructor which documentation style you should use
• Ask your instructor whether the citations and annotations should be arranged alphabetically or chronologically
• Locate appropriate sources
  • Carefully examine the item. Make sure the source contributes to the topic.
  • Mention how the source pertains to the topic – for instance” “Although this is an older source it is a classic in the field and served as the basis for subsequent research.”
• Write the annotation. If your are writing a critical annotation ask these questions:
  • Purpose: what is the source trying to accomplish?
  • Audience: who is expected to use this material – is it geared to a novice or an expert? Is it a scholarly or popular treatment of the topic?
  • Authority: what evidence of authority is given for the author? Who is the publisher Are there endnotes or a bibliography?
  • Currency: Is the material up to date? Does that matter?
  • Coverage: is the topic treated in a comprehensive or general manner?
  • Ease of use: how is the source organized? Is there an informative introduction? Are there special features?
  • Your opinion: What is your reaction to the source?