How to Write an Annotated Bibliography (APA and MLA Examples)

Key takeaways

• An annotated bibliography is a list of sources, each followed by a short paragraph (about 100–200 words) that summarizes, evaluates and explains the source's relevance.
• Format the citation in your required style (APA or MLA), then indent the annotation beneath it.
• Good annotations answer three questions: What is it about? How reliable is it? How will I use it?

Types of annotations

• Descriptive: summarizes the source's main argument and scope
• Evaluative (critical): also assesses strengths, weaknesses, methodology and bias
• Combined: summary + evaluation + relevance to your research (the most common in assignments)

How to write each annotation

1. Cite the source in APA, MLA or your required style.
2. Summarize the main argument, method and findings in 2–3 sentences.
3. Evaluate the author's credentials, the quality of the evidence, and any limitations or bias.
4. Reflect on how the source fits your research question.

APA example

Lopez, M., & Chen, R. (2021). Remote work and employee well-being: A longitudinal study. Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 26(4), 301–315. https://doi.org/xxxx

Lopez and Chen followed 1,200 employees for two years to examine how remote work affects well-being. They found that flexibility improved job satisfaction, but isolation increased over time for workers living alone. The large sample and longitudinal design strengthen the findings, although all participants worked in the technology sector. This study will support my argument that remote-work policies need social connection strategies.

Formatting rules

• Alphabetize entries by author
• Use a hanging indent for citations
• In APA, indent the whole annotation 0.5 inch. In MLA, indent it 1 inch from the margin, per MLA guidance
• Double-space throughout, unless your instructor says otherwise

Frequently asked questions

How long should each annotation be?

Usually 100–200 words, or about one paragraph. Follow your instructor's length requirement.

Does an annotated bibliography need an introduction?

Not usually, but some instructors ask for a short introduction explaining the research topic and selection criteria.

What's the title of an annotated bibliography page?

Use "Annotated Bibliography", centered, in both APA (bold) and MLA.