An annotated bibliography is a list of sources that provides a summary and evaluation of the sources. It is a useful tool for researchers and students as it helps them to organize and document the sources they have used in their research and to assess the quality of the sources. The Modern Language Association (MLA) citation format is a widely used style for citing sources in the humanities and liberal arts. In this essay, we will look at the MLA citation format for annotated bibliographies and how to use it effectively.
To begin with, it is important to understand that an annotated bibliography is different from a regular bibliography. While a regular bibliography simply lists the sources in alphabetical order, an annotated bibliography includes a brief summary or evaluation of each source. The annotation can be as short as a few sentences or as long as a paragraph, depending on the purpose of the bibliography and the length of the source.
In terms of the MLA citation format, an annotated bibliography should be organized alphabetically by the author's last name. Each entry should begin with the full citation of the source in MLA style, followed by the annotation. The citation should include the author's name, the title of the work, the publication information, and any relevant page numbers. The annotation should provide a summary of the main points of the source and a critical evaluation of its relevance and reliability.
Here is an example of an annotated bibliography entry in MLA citation format:
Smith, John. "The History of the Printing Press." Journal of Printing History, vol. 45, no. 3, 2015, pp. 123-150.
In this article, Smith provides a detailed overview of the history of the printing press and its impact on the spread of knowledge and ideas. He uses primary sources such as letters and diaries to give a personal perspective on the development of printing technology. The article is well-researched and provides a valuable contribution to the field of printing history.
It is important to note that the annotation should not simply repeat information that is already included in the citation. Instead, it should provide additional information about the source and its value to the research.
In addition to the summary and evaluation, the annotation may also include a reflection on the source's limitations or potential biases. This can help the reader to consider the source in the context of the research question and to evaluate its reliability.
Overall, the MLA citation format for annotated bibliographies is a useful tool for organizing and evaluating sources. It allows researchers and students to document their sources and to demonstrate the relevance and reliability of the sources they have used in their research. By following the guidelines for the MLA citation format, researchers and students can create a clear and professional-looking annotated bibliography that will be valuable for their research.