AVS 477: Zoonoses and Animal Health

What is an annotated bibliography?

An annotated bibliography provides specific information about the sources you found for your research projects. There are two components to an annotated bibliography: the citation and the annotation. 

An annotated bibliography generally:

• Explains the main points or purpose of the source and how it relates to your topic
• Summarizes the conclusions reached in the source, as well as the source's strengths and weaknesses
•  Examines the credibility and authority of the source, the author(s), and the publisher
• Proves that the source was appropriate for your topic and that you have read and understood the material
• Establishes your own work (i.e, this project) as a credible source
• Gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your skill as a researcher

To figure out exactly what you should include in your annotation, consult your assignment and/or your instructor.

Here are some additional resources to help with your annotated bibliographies:

• University of North Carolina Chapel Hill: Annotated Bibliographies
• Cornell University Library Annotated Bibliography Guide
• Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL): Annotated Bibliographies