An annotated bibliography is a list of sources with annotations, listed in alphabetical order. An annotation is a one or two paragraph summary and/or analysis of a source. This type of bibliography will help guide the student’s research and prepare them for the research essay with a critical evaluation of the sources.

Recommended length: 4-6 pages, double-spaced in 12pt font. APA Format.

As a critical component of the research process, students will write an annotated bibliography on the topic they have chosen for their research paper. An underlying purpose of the annotated bibliography is to allow students to read more critically, more carefully, rather than simply collect information. In the research process, an annotated bibliography is an instrument to help students formulate a clear thesis, a strong argument.

Each annotation should include in one paragraph: a summary, an evaluation of the text (which includes the intended audience), and a reflection on its applicability to his/her own research. Recommended Length: 4-6 pages. APA Format.

Purpose: To develop a working collection of valuable, credible sources related to your topic.

Audience: An academic audience that includes the authors of the readings and other interested in the issue upon which you are focusing.

Questions for Consideration and Topic Exploration: Carefully select and annotate a minimum of ten (10) sources related to the key global challenge you identified for your research paper. These should include a combination of scholarly journals (three minimum), newspaper articles, applicable websites, as well as other relevant, scholarly sources.