Annotated Bibliographies: What they are and how to prepare one

Summary

This video explains how to prepare an annotated bibliography. It highlights that an annotated bibliography includes not only citations but also brief descriptions and evaluations of each resource. The video provides guidance on writing succinct descriptions, including details about the resource's producer, purpose, and audience. It also emphasizes the importance of summarizing key points, assessing the resource's relevance, and following the required citation style. The entries should be organized alphabetically by the author's surname. The video encourages viewers to critically analyze resources and contact the library for further help.

Takeaways

• 📚 An annotated bibliography is similar to a reference list but includes a description and evaluation of each resource.
• 📑 The heading of an annotated bibliography should be centered, but don't title it 'Annotated Bibliography.' Use a relevant title instead.
• 🌍 In this example, the title used is 'Environmental Temperature Increase.'
• 📝 Annotations are typically 100-200 words, and the citation isn't usually included in the word count.
• 🔍 Each entry starts with a citation, and the style may vary depending on the assignment (e.g., APA 6th edition).
• 🧠 Use critical analysis skills to assess the resource, starting the annotation with a description of who produced the text, its purpose, and its intended audience.
• 🔑 Provide a succinct description to inform the reader why the resource is important.
• ✍️ Summarize the key points and findings of the resource.
• 🎯 Comment on the resource's relevance to the topic or field of study.
• 📚 Organize all entries in alphabetical order by the lead author's surname to complete the annotated bibliography.

Q & A

What is an annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to books, articles, or other resources, accompanied by a paragraph that describes and evaluates the resource.

How is an annotated bibliography different from a reference list?

While a reference list only provides citations, an annotated bibliography includes a descriptive and evaluative paragraph for each resource.

What should the heading of an annotated bibliography look like?

The heading should be centered at the top of the page and should relate to the subject of the entries. The title 'Annotated Bibliography' should not be used.

How long is a typical annotation?

Annotations are commonly 100-200 words in length.

Does the citation count toward the word limit for an annotation?

No, the citation is usually not included in the word count.

What should be included in the description part of the annotation?

The description should include who produced the text, its purpose, and the intended audience.

Why is the description of the resource important?

The description helps the reader understand why the resource is important.

What should be included in the summary of the annotation?

The summary should cover the key points and findings expressed by the author.

What should you evaluate when commenting on the resource's relevance?

You should comment on how relevant the resource is to the topic or field of study being researched.

How should the entries in an annotated bibliography be ordered?

The entries should be listed in alphabetical order by the surname of the lead author.