An annotated reference is a list of citations to books, articles, and documents that includes a brief descriptive and evaluative paragraph, the annotation, for each item. This type of reference is commonly used in research papers and is intended to help the reader understand the relevance and quality of the sources cited.
In the American Psychological Association (APA) style, annotated references are formatted similarly to regular references, but with the addition of the annotation. The annotation should be indented and placed immediately after the reference.
To create an annotated reference in APA style, start by citing the source in the proper format. This includes the author's name, the year of publication, the title of the work, and the publication information. For example:
Smith, J. (2020). The history of the bicycle. New York, NY: Random House.
Next, add the annotation. The annotation should be a brief summary of the source and should include any relevant information that helps the reader understand the importance of the source. For example:
Smith's book provides a detailed and well-researched history of the bicycle, covering its invention and evolution over time. The book includes numerous illustrations and draws on a wide range of primary and secondary sources.
It is important to remember that the purpose of the annotation is to inform the reader, not to summarize the entire source. The annotation should be concise and should focus on the main points or arguments of the source.
In addition to the summary, the annotation may also include an evaluation of the source. This can include an assessment of the source's credibility, reliability, and relevance to the research topic. For example:
Smith's book is a reliable and comprehensive resource on the history of the bicycle. The author is an expert in the field and has drawn on a wide range of sources to support his arguments. This book would be a valuable addition to any research on the history of transportation.
Overall, annotated references are a useful tool for researchers and writers as they allow readers to quickly assess the relevance and quality of the sources being cited. By following the guidelines of the APA style, you can create well-organized and informative annotated references that help your readers understand the significance of your research.
