How to Cite an Annotated Bibliography in APA

An annotated bibliography is a list of citations followed by a brief summary and evaluation of each source. When citing in APA format, it's essential to follow specific formatting rules to ensure academic credibility and consistency.

1. Start with a Proper APA Citation

Format the source just like you would in a regular reference list. Include the author(s), year, title, and source information.

Example: Smith, J. (2020). The psychology of learning. Academic Press.

2. Add the Annotation Below the Citation

After the citation, write a short paragraph (about 100–150 words) that includes:

• A summary of the source
• An evaluation of its credibility
• A reflection on how it supports your research

3. Indentation & Formatting

Use a hanging indent for the citation and indent the annotation as a block paragraph. Double-space the entire document and use Times New Roman, 12-point font.

4. Organize Alphabetically

List entries alphabetically by the last name of the first author. Do not number the entries unless instructed otherwise.

Still unsure about formatting your APA annotated bibliography? Our academic experts can help you cite accurately and present your work professionally.