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NUTR 510 Capstone Research

Students will be trained on how to conduct and summarize current research literature, identify the gaps in research, and design a research project on a nutrition topic.

What is an Annotated Bibliography?

An annotated bibliography is a list of academic sources that includes a brief descriptive paragraph after each citation. An annotation is a summary of the source's main points. Annotations are written by you below each citation in the list.

Summary Annotations - a summary of the main arguments, topics, and conclusions in your own words without quoting the source.

Critical/Evaluative Annotations - a summary annotation that evaluates the source's quality, authority, and reliability. You also explain how the source will be useful in your own research project.

 

Derived from https://libguides.marist.edu/c.php?g=1029918&p=7464540#s-lg-box-wrapper-30592071

Why do an Annotated Bibliography?

An annotated bibliography provides specific information about each source used. It is a guide for readers by enabling interested researchers to understand the content and make informed decisions regarding the topic. 

It also: 

  • Demonstrates comprehension and familiarity with the sources
  • Promotes critical thinking by analyzing context and relevance 
  • Validates your work as a reliable source and establishes your competence
  • Assists others in evaluating the usefulness of a source for their own research

 

Derived from https://library.daytonastate.edu/citation/annotated

Steps to Writing an Annotated Bibliography

Ensure the correct citation is used for each source. Annotations are written in paragraph form with varying lengths, generally between 5-7 sentences. They tend to be shorter for summary annotations versus critical evaluation annotations. 

1. Write the AMA Citation: 

  • create the citation for the source using the same format as the AMA reference list

2. Write the Annotation: 

  • Summarize - briefly cover the source's purpose, methodology (how it was conducted), and main findings or conclusion
  • Evaluate/Assess - discuss the source's significance and relevance to your own research. Is the information reliable? Any bias?
  • Reflect - address how the source relates to your research. How can you use it? 

Example of AMA Annotated Bibliography

The AMA Manual of Style does not offer guidance on the format for an annotated bibliography. They can be summary or critical/evaluative annotations. Citations are generally numbered. If you're unsure about the guidelines for length, content, and format, ask your professor.