“Where are you going, Where have you been?” By Joyce Carol Oates.
The first step to writing a research paper is learning about what scholars have written on your subject. After you determine which story you’d like to research, the Annotated Bibliography will help you determine which sources will be most useful to you and ensure that the sources you select are credible and relevant.
What is an annotated bibliography?
An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to books, articles, and other resources. It differs from a traditional bibliography (or “Works Cited” page) that you might find at the end of an essay because after each citation there are two paragraphs known as the annotation. This annotation both describes and evaluates the source. The annotation informs the reader of the relevance, accuracy, and quality of each source. Compiling an annotated bibliography will enable you to officially enter the critical conversation on your topic.
How do I prepare the annotated bibliography?
Locate 8 credible and relevant sources as you begin developing your working thesis for the research paper and cite them according to MLA Style. Then write the two paragraphs known as the annotation. The first paragraph should be a thorough summary of the source, and the second should discuss how this source will be (or won’t be) useful to incorporate in your essay. An example first page of an Annotated Bibliography is included below.
ENG 112 – Annotated Bib Example.docx ENG 112 – Annotated Bib Example.docx – Alternative Formats
Notes:
– 8 sources are required for the annotated bibliography.
– 5 sources must be incorporated into your Research Paper, though you can include more.
– Reference works/Overviews are not allowed in the Annotated Bibliography or the Research Paper.
– Students will not receive credit for the Annotated Bibliography unless they have 5 credible sources.
– The Annotated Bibliography must be completed in order to receive credit for any part of the Research Paper.
– Students who do not complete the Annotated Bibliography will not pass ENG 112.
– As you begin your research, questions should be directed to the Ask a Librarian Discussion Forum in the Research Paper tab on Blackboard.
