How to Write an Annotated Bibliography (With Example)

An annotated bibliography looks like a reference list at first glance — but it is a distinct assignment with its own structure, and treating it like a regular reference list is one of the fastest ways to lose marks. Each entry needs a full citation followed by a written annotation that summarises, evaluates and reflects on the source. This guide covers exactly what belongs in an annotation, the different types you might be asked for, and how it differs from a literature review.

What Is an Annotated Bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations to sources — books, articles, reports — where each citation is followed by a short paragraph called an annotation. The annotation summarises the source's content, evaluates its credibility and relevance, and sometimes reflects on how it relates to your research. It is commonly assigned early in a research project, both to demonstrate you have engaged critically with your sources and to build the foundation for a later literature review or dissertation.

Annotated Bibliography vs. Literature Review

These two assignments are frequently confused, but they serve different purposes:

• Annotated bibliography: sources are treated individually — each gets its own separate, self-contained annotation, typically 100–200 words
• Literature review: sources are synthesised together into a connected narrative, organised by theme or argument rather than source-by-source

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Types of Annotations

• Descriptive/Summary: summarises the source's content and scope without evaluating it
• Evaluative/Critical: summarises the source and assesses its strengths, weaknesses, credibility and usefulness
• Reflective: adds how the source specifically informs or relates to your own research

Most university assignments expect an evaluative annotation, sometimes with a reflective element — always check your specific instructions, since the expected type changes what you write.

What Goes in Each Annotation

1. Summary (1–2 sentences): the source's main argument, purpose or findings
2. Evaluation (2–3 sentences): the author's credentials, methodology, credibility, and any limitations or biases
3. Relevance (1–2 sentences): how this source relates to your research question or topic

Format and Citation Style

• Citations follow whatever referencing style your course requires — Harvard, APA, OSCOLA, MLA — check before you start
• Alphabetical order by author surname is standard unless your assignment specifies otherwise
• Length per annotation is typically 100–200 words, though some assignments set a specific word count
• Consistent formatting across every entry — same annotation structure, same level of detail

A Worked Example

Common Mistakes

• Writing only a summary when the assignment requires evaluation
• Treating it like a regular reference list with no annotation at all
• Inconsistent depth or structure across entries
• Ignoring the specified citation style
• Confusing it with a literature review and synthesising sources together instead of annotating individually
• Choosing sources without a clear connection to the actual research question

FAQs

How long should each annotation be?

Typically 100–200 words, though some assignments set a specific word count. Always check your instructions rather than assuming.

Is an annotated bibliography the same as a literature review?

No. An annotated bibliography evaluates sources individually, one at a time. A literature review synthesises multiple sources together into a connected argument organised by theme.

What citation style should I use?

Whatever your course or department requires — commonly Harvard, APA, OSCOLA or MLA. Check your assignment brief before starting, since formatting is usually part of the grading criteria.