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Library 101

Basics of Annotated Bibliographies

Why do an annotated bibliography?

To use research to support your argument or theories
To articulate your evaluation and summary of the material
To share your expertise of the material with others
To add to the scholarly conversation on your topic

What does an annotated bibliography contain?

A citation in the appropriate style (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.)
Summary of the main points or purpose of the work
An evaluation of the research. An easy way to remember what to evaluate is to use the CRAAP test (below)
A conclusion or reflection about the research.

Adapted from Annotated Bibliographies, The Writing Center University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. https://writing center.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/annotated-bibliographies/

What's an Annotated Bibliography?

Annotated Bibliography Links

UNC Chapel Hill Annotated Bibliographies
UNC Chapel Hill's Writing Center describes why an annotated bibliography is useful, what it is, and what the different types are.
Purdue OWL Annotated Bibliography Page
The Purdue OWL's Annotated Bibliography page has a brief description of what the basic parts are and why you should do one.

Citation Guidelines

In case you need a refresher on citation guidelines, here are some resources from the Purdue OWL.

Annotated Bibliography Quiz

Library 101 quiz in my courses
Complete the annotated bibliography with 70% correct to qualify for your completion certificate.
Library 101 quiz in canvas