An annotated bibliography includes a summary and/or evaluation of each source, which is called an annotation. Depending on your assignment, your annotations may include one or more of the following:
Summarize: Some annotations merely summarize the source.
- What are the main arguments?
- What is the point of this book or article?
- What topics are covered?
Assess: After you summarize a source, it may be helpful to evaluate it.
- Is it a useful source?
- How does it compare with other sources in your bibliography?
- Is the information reliable?
- Is it this source biased or objective?
- What is the goal of this source?
Reflect: Next, determine how the source fits into your research.
- Was this source helpful to you?
- How does it help you shape your argument?
- How can you use this source in your research project?
- Has it changed how you think about your topic?
Use the links below to access more information and samples.
