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How to Write an Annotated Bibliography: Home

Not sure how to start your annotated bibliography? You’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through what it is, how to write one, and how to format your citations. Use the tabs to explore step-by-step instructions, examples, and helpful tools.

Need a Quick Refresher?

An annotated bibliography = list of sources + short explanations.

  • What it is: A paragraph under each source that explains what it’s about and how you’ll use it
  • Why it matters: Shows you understand your research and are thinking critically
  • What to write: 4–7 sentences per source covering summary, credibility, and usefulness

Think of it like reviewing your sources before using them...kind of like academic Yelp.

What's in This Guide

  • What an annotated bibliography is and how it works
  • Types of annotations with examples
  • Step-by-step instructions for writing your own
  • APA & MLA style examples
  • Citation tools and templates
  • Common mistakes to avoid + quick tips

Use the navigation buttons to jump to each section, or contact the library anytime at library@ra.ac.ae.

What's the Purpose of this Assignment

This assignment isn’t just about listing sources—it’s about learning how to engage with them. When you write an annotated bibliography, you’re practicing how to:

  • Find relevant and credible academic sources
  • Understand and summarize complex ideas clearly
  • Evaluate how useful a source is for your topic
  • Think critically about the information you use

These are essential skills for academic writing, especially for research projects, reports, and capstone assignments. By building an annotated bibliography, you're creating the foundation for your future paper.

“Knowledge is a treasure, but practice is the key to it.” — Ibn Khaldun