An annotated bibliography is a list of sources that includes a summary and evaluation of each source. An annotated bibliography can be a useful tool for researchers as it helps to organize and contextualize the sources that have been consulted for a research project. The Chicago Manual of Style (CMS) provides guidelines for formatting an annotated bibliography, and the format may vary slightly depending on whether the bibliography is to be included in a paper or presented as a standalone document.
To create a sample Chicago style annotated bibliography, you will need to follow these steps:
Begin by gathering a list of sources that you have consulted for your research project. This list should include the full citation for each source in Chicago style.
For each source, provide a brief summary of the main points or arguments presented in the source. This summary should be around 150-200 words in length and should highlight the key ideas and information that are relevant to your research.
In addition to the summary, you should also provide an evaluation or critique of the source. This should include your assessment of the source's strengths and weaknesses, as well as its relevance to your research.
Format the annotated bibliography according to the guidelines provided in the CMS. This includes double-spacing the entries and indenting each paragraph.
Here is an example of a sample Chicago style annotated bibliography:
Smith, John. "The History of the Printing Press." Journal of Printing History, vol. 32, no. 2, 2012, pp. 123-145.
In this article, Smith examines the impact of the printing press on the spread of knowledge and the development of modern society. He traces the history of the printing press from its invention in the 15th century to its role in the Enlightenment and beyond. Smith argues that the printing press played a pivotal role in the dissemination of ideas and the creation of a public sphere, and he uses a variety of primary and secondary sources to support his argument. This is a well-researched and thoughtfully written article that makes a valuable contribution to the field of printing history.
Jones, Mary. "The Role of Women in the Printing Industry." Women's Studies Quarterly, vol. 45, no. 3, 2017, pp. 156-174.
Jones' article explores the contributions of women to the printing industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. She argues that women played a significant role in the industry, despite facing numerous challenges and barriers. Jones uses a variety of primary sources, including letters and diaries, to support her argument and to shed light on the experiences of women in the industry. This is a thought-provoking and informative article that adds a new perspective to the history of printing.
In conclusion, an annotated bibliography is a useful tool for organizing and evaluating the sources that you have consulted for a research project. By following the guidelines provided in the Chicago Manual of Style, you can create a clear and well-organized annotated bibliography that will help to contextualize your research and provide a valuable resource for other researchers.