An annotated bibliography is a list of sources, such as books, articles, and websites, that you have used in your research, accompanied by a brief summary and evaluation of each source. This can be a useful tool for organizing and documenting your research, as well as for demonstrating the breadth and depth of your research to others, such as your instructor or colleagues.
In the American Psychological Association (APA) style, an annotated bibliography is typically formatted as a reference list, with each source listed in alphabetical order by the author's last name. The annotation for each source is then included as a paragraph following the reference.
Here is an example of an APA format annotated bibliography template:
Annotated Bibliography
Reference:
Author, A. A., & Author, B. B. (Year). Title of work. Place of publication: Publisher.
Annotation:
Summarize the main points of the source and provide a brief evaluation of its relevance to your research.
Note: The annotation should be indented and single-spaced, with a double space between each entry.
For example:
Annotated Bibliography
Reference:
Smith, J. (2020). The impact of social media on mental health. New York: Springer.
Annotation:
In this book, Smith examines the relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes. Using data from multiple studies, the author concludes that excessive social media use can contribute to the development of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. However, the author also notes that the impact of social media on mental health is complex and may vary depending on individual differences and the content of the social media use. This book is a useful resource for anyone interested in understanding the potential risks and benefits of social media use.
In addition to summarizing the main points of the source, the annotation may also include your own thoughts and evaluation of the source. For example, you might discuss the strengths and limitations of the study, or the ways in which the source contributes to or challenges your own research.
By following this APA format annotated bibliography template, you can create a clear and organized list of sources that will be valuable to you in your research and to others who are interested in your work.
