An annotated bibliography is a list of sources that provides a summary and evaluation of each source. It is a useful tool for research projects because it helps you keep track of the sources you have used and provides a concise overview of the information contained in each source. In addition, an annotated bibliography can help you identify potential gaps in your research and can serve as a starting point for future research.
When creating an annotated bibliography, it is important to follow the guidelines of the citation style you are using. One commonly used citation style is the Modern Language Association (MLA) style. In this style, the sources are listed alphabetically by the author's last name, and each source is followed by a brief annotation.
To create an annotated bibliography in MLA style, you will need to follow these steps:
Choose the sources you want to include in your bibliography. These should be sources that are relevant to your research topic and that you have used in your paper.
Create a list of your sources in alphabetical order by the author's last name. Follow the MLA style guidelines for citing each source, including the author's name, title of the work, and publication information.
Write a brief summary of each source. This should include the main arguments or points made in the source, as well as any key examples or evidence.
Evaluate the source. In this section, you should discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the source, and how it contributes to your research.
Cite the source in MLA style. This should include the author's name, the title of the work, and the publication information.
Here is an example of an annotated bibliography in MLA style:
Annotated Bibliography
Bryson, Bill. A Short History of Nearly Everything. Broadway Books, 2004.
In this book, Bryson explores the history of the universe and the various scientific fields that have contributed to our understanding of it. He presents complex ideas in a clear and engaging way, making the book accessible to a wide audience. However, some reviewers have criticized the book for oversimplifying certain concepts and ignoring certain important details. Overall, this book is a useful resource for anyone interested in the history of science and the universe.
Darwin, Charles. On the Origin of Species. John Murray, 1859.
In this groundbreaking work, Darwin presents his theory of evolution by natural selection. He provides extensive evidence to support his argument and addresses potential objections. This book is a key resource for anyone studying the history of evolutionary biology and the development of modern scientific ideas.
Gould, Stephen J. The Mismeasure of Man. W. W. Norton & Company, 1981.
Gould challenges the use of intelligence tests to measure innate intelligence and argues that intelligence is a complex trait that cannot be accurately measured by a single test. He provides a thorough examination of the history of intelligence testing and the biases that have influenced its development. This book is an important resource for anyone interested in the social and cultural implications of intelligence testing.
As you can see, an annotated bibliography in MLA style includes a list of sources, a summary of each source, an evaluation of the source, and a citation in MLA style. It is a useful tool for organizing and evaluating your research and can help you identify gaps in your knowledge and areas for further study.
