Master MLA 9 Formatting with Annotated Bibliography Writing Guide

Master MLA 9 Formatting with Annotated Bibliography Writing Guide

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. What is an Annotated Bibliography?
3. Importance of an Annotated Bibliography
4. How to Create an Annotated Bibliography 4.1 Formatting an Annotated Bibliography 4.2 Organizing Sources 4.3 Writing Annotations
5. Summarizing the Main Point of a Source
6. Adding Relevant Details in Annotations
7. Evaluating and Reflecting on Sources
8. Follow Instructor's Guidelines
9. Conclusion
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Introduction

In this article, we will discuss how to create an annotated bibliography. An annotated bibliography is a vital component in academic research, providing a summary and evaluation of each source used in a project. Many students find the task of creating an annotated bibliography challenging. However, understanding its importance and following the correct formatting and writing guidelines can make the process easier. In this article, we will explore the significance of an annotated bibliography and provide a step-by-step guide to help you create one effectively.

What is an Annotated Bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is an organized list of sources used in a research project or paper. It goes beyond a traditional works cited page or references section by including annotations or paragraphs that summarize and evaluate each source. The summaries provide an overview of the main point of the source, while the evaluations explain the source's usefulness and relevance to the overall project.

Importance of an Annotated Bibliography

While some students may perceive an annotated bibliography as an additional assignment, it serves several important purposes. Firstly, it compels the researcher to thoroughly engage with the topic by finding, reading, and understanding key sources. This process enhances their knowledge, enabling them to provide more insightful analysis in their research paper. Additionally, an annotated bibliography helps filter out irrelevant or unreliable sources, ensuring that only high-quality and relevant sources are used in the research. By organizing and evaluating sources in advance, students can save time during the writing process and effectively plan how each source will contribute to their project.

How to Create an Annotated Bibliography

Creating an annotated bibliography involves several steps, from formatting to writing annotations. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you create an annotated bibliography effectively.

Formatting an Annotated Bibliography

When formatting an annotated bibliography, it is crucial to follow the specific guidelines of the citation style required by your instructor. In this example, we will focus on the MLA 9 formatting style.

Start by including a header with your last name and page number aligned to the right. The heading should include your name, the professor's name, the name of the class, and the due date, all left-aligned. Center-align the title as "Annotated Bibliography" according to MLA 9 guidelines. Ensure that your font size is 12-point and that the document is double-spaced.

Organizing Sources

In an annotated bibliography, you have the freedom to arrange your sources in alphabetical order by the author's last name, by topic, or by year, depending on your instructor's guidelines. Indent the second and subsequent lines of each source using a hanging indentation or modify the indentations based on the citation style rules.

Writing Annotations

Annotations in an annotated bibliography provide summaries and evaluations of each source. The summary paragraph should summarize the main point of the source, focusing on the author's objectives and the key supporting details. Be concise and avoid including minor details, quotes, or citations.

In the evaluation section, provide your opinion on the source and explain its relevance to your research project. Consider how the source helps establish a problem or support your proposed solution. Follow your instructor's guidelines for specific questions that need to be addressed in this section.

Summarizing the Main Point of a Source

To effectively summarize the main point of a source, it is important to accurately convey what the author does in the source. Use vivid verbs to describe whether the author questions, informs, illustrates, warns, describes, or refutes a particular topic. Be specific about the supporting details the author utilizes to substantiate their main point.

Adding Relevant Details in Annotations

While summarizing the main point is crucial, it is also essential to include relevant details within the annotations. However, ensure that the summary paragraph remains concise and does not include minor details or extraneous information. Focus on the main point and supporting details without providing a step-by-step breakdown of the source.

Evaluating and Reflecting on Sources

The evaluation section of an annotation allows you to reflect on the source and provide your opinion on its usefulness and relevance. Explain why and how the source is a good fit for your overall research project. Consider how it contributes to the establishment of a problem or the support of your proposed solution. This evaluation showcases your critical thinking skills and helps demonstrate the credibility of your research.

Follow Instructor's Guidelines

Always follow the specific guidelines provided by your instructor or academic institution when creating an annotated bibliography. Pay attention to any specific requirements regarding formatting, organization, or evaluation. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure that your annotated bibliography meets the expectations and requirements of your academic assignment.

Conclusion

Creating an annotated bibliography is a crucial step in academic research. It helps researchers organize and evaluate sources, saves time during the writing process, and enhances the credibility and quality of a research paper. By summarizing, evaluating, and reflecting on each source, students gain a deeper understanding of their research topic and can effectively incorporate relevant sources into their work. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article, you can create an impressive annotated bibliography that supports your research project and demonstrates your scholarly abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use different citation styles for my annotated bibliography? A: It is essential to use the citation style specified by your instructor. Most commonly, MLA or APA styles are used for annotated bibliographies.

Q: How many sources should I include in my annotated bibliography? A: The number of sources to include depends on your research project and the requirements provided by your instructor. Typically, a good range is 5-10 sources.

Q: Can I rearrange the order of my sources in the annotated bibliography? A: Yes, you can arrange your sources in alphabetical order, by topic, or by year, depending on your instructor's guidelines.

Q: Do I need to evaluate every source in the annotated bibliography? A: Yes, it is essential to provide an evaluation or reflection of each source, explaining its relevance to your research project.

Q: Can I include personal opinions in the annotations? A: Yes, the evaluation section of the annotation allows you to include your opinion and explain why and how a source is relevant to your research.