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Annotated Bibliography Example (MLA, APA 7, Chicago)

Browse our collection of annotated bibliography examples for the most common citation styles. Find properly formatted samples for journals, books, websites, and more.

MLA APA 7 Chicago

Featured Examples

MLA Source Type: Journal Article Summary

Citation

Martinez, Elena R., and James K. Thompson. "The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health: A Longitudinal Study." Journal of Youth Psychology 45.3 (2023): 234-251.

Annotation

Martinez and Thompson examine the relationship between social media usage and mental health outcomes in teenagers over a three-year period. The study tracked 2,500 adolescents aged 13-18, measuring daily screen time alongside standardized mental health assessments. Their findings reveal a significant correlation between excessive social media use (over 4 hours daily) and increased anxiety and depression symptoms. The researchers employ both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive analysis. This longitudinal approach strengthens the study's validity by demonstrating patterns over time rather than isolated snapshots.
MLA Source Type: Book Summary

Citation

Harrington, James D. The Digital Divide: Technology Access and Social Inequality. Cambridge UP, 2023.

Annotation

Harrington examines the persistent gaps in technology access across socioeconomic, racial, and geographic lines in the United States. The book traces the evolution of the digital divide from the early internet era through the smartphone age, documenting how lack of access perpetuates educational and economic disadvantages. Harrington presents extensive statistical data alongside case studies of communities affected by limited connectivity. The author argues that the digital divide has transformed from a binary question of access to a more nuanced issue.
MLA Source Type: Website Summary

Citation

"Climate Change Indicators." Environmental Protection Agency, 15 Mar. 2024, www.epa.gov/climate-indicators. Accessed 20 Nov. 2024.

Annotation

This EPA webpage compiles key indicators of climate change in the United States, presenting data on temperature trends, precipitation patterns, sea level rise, and ecosystem changes. The site organizes indicators into categories including weather and climate, oceans, snow and ice, and society. Each indicator page provides historical data, recent trends, and explanations of data sources and methodologies. Interactive graphs allow users to explore data across different time periods and geographic regions.

Browse by Source Type

Journal Article

Book

Website

Annotation Templates

Use these templates as a starting point for your annotations. Each template follows a different approach.

Summary Annotation

Most Common

Describes the main arguments, methods, and conclusions of the source.

This article/book examines [main topic] through [methodology/approach]. The author(s) argue that [main argument/thesis]. Key findings include [2-3 major points]. The study draws on [type of evidence/sources] to support its conclusions. This source provides valuable context for understanding [broader topic].

Evaluation Annotation

Critical Analysis

Assesses the source's credibility, relevance, accuracy, and quality.

[Author] presents a [compelling/thorough/limited] analysis of [topic]. The research methodology is [rigorous/questionable] because [specific reason]. A key strength is [positive aspect], while a limitation is [weakness or gap]. The author's expertise in [field] lends credibility to the argument. This source is [highly useful/somewhat useful] for [specific purpose] because [reason].

Reflection Annotation

Personal Connection

Explains how the source relates to your research and how you might use it.

This source significantly shaped my understanding of [topic] by [specific insight]. Reading it challenged my previous assumption that [prior belief]. I plan to use this source to [specific application in research]. The author's perspective on [specific point] connects to my research question about [your question]. This work will help me argue that [your thesis element].

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • 1. Copying the abstract: Write your own summary instead of paraphrasing or copying the source's abstract.
  • 2. Too short or too long: Keep annotations between 150-200 words unless your instructor specifies otherwise.
  • 3. Wrong citation format: Double-check that your citation matches MLA, APA, or Chicago guidelines exactly.
  • 4. Only summarizing: Most assignments require evaluation or reflection in addition to summary.
  • 5. Inconsistent formatting: Use the same citation style throughout your entire bibliography.
  • 6. Missing hanging indent: The second line onward should be indented 0.5 inches from the left margin.
  • 7. Not connecting to research: Explain how each source relates to your specific research question or thesis.
  • 8. Using unreliable sources: Academic work requires peer-reviewed journals, books, and reputable websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of sources (books, articles, websites, etc.) with a brief summary and evaluation of each source. Unlike a regular bibliography that only lists citations, an annotated bibliography includes a paragraph (typically 150-200 words) that describes the content, assesses the source's usefulness, and may reflect on how it relates to your research topic.

What are the three main types of annotations?

The three main types of annotations are: 1) Summary - describes the main arguments, methods, and conclusions of the source; 2) Evaluation - assesses the source's credibility, relevance, accuracy, and quality; and 3) Reflection - explains how the source relates to your research question and how you might use it in your paper. Many annotations combine two or more of these types.

How long should an annotation be?

Most annotations are between 150-200 words, though your instructor may specify a different length. The annotation should be concise but comprehensive enough to convey the source's main points and your assessment. Some assignments require shorter annotations (100 words), while others may ask for extended annotations (300+ words).

What citation format should I use for my annotated bibliography?

The citation format depends on your discipline and instructor requirements. MLA (Modern Language Association) is common in humanities, APA (American Psychological Association) in social sciences and education, and Chicago style in history and some humanities. Always check your assignment guidelines or ask your instructor which format to use.

How many sources should be in an annotated bibliography?

The number of sources varies by assignment. Undergraduate papers typically require 5-10 annotated sources, while graduate-level literature reviews may require 15-30 or more. Check your assignment guidelines for specific requirements. Quality matters more than quantity - choose sources that are relevant, credible, and diverse.

Should I write my annotated bibliography before or after my paper?

Creating your annotated bibliography during the research phase, before writing your paper, is most beneficial. This process helps you evaluate sources critically, identify gaps in your research, understand the scholarly conversation around your topic, and organize your thoughts. The annotations become a valuable reference when drafting.

Related Guides & Examples

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