Add each source once, write its annotation (with sentence starters if you're stuck) and get a properly formatted APA 7 or MLA 9 annotated bibliography: alphabetized, double-spaced, with half-inch hanging indents and indented annotation paragraphs. Download it as a Word DOCX, copy it with formatting or print it.
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Citation style
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Most annotations are 100–200 words (about 4–8 sentences). Replace anything in [square brackets].
APA uses sentence case for article, book and page titles and title case for journal names. Re-check proper nouns.
Sources
Annotated Bibliography
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How to use the Annotated Bibliography Generator
Pick APA 7 or MLA 9 at the top (you can switch later).
Fill in the source details: type, authors, title, journal or site, date, pages and DOI or URL.
Write the annotation: choose an annotation type and press Insert sentence starters, then replace the bracketed parts in your own words.
Press Add to bibliography. Entries are alphabetized and formatted instantly; use Edit or Delete to change them.
Export: Download DOCX for Word or Google Docs, or copy, print or save as text.
APA vs. MLA annotated bibliography at a glance
Element
APA 7
MLA 9
Page title
Centered, bold (e.g. Annotated Bibliography)
Centered, plain (Annotated Bibliography or Annotated List of Works Cited)
Author names
Surname, initials: Okafor, D., & Brandt, L.
Full names: Okafor, Daniel, and Lena Brandt; 3+ authors: et al.
New line under the citation, indented from the left margin (0.5 inch is common; some instructors ask for 1 inch)
Example in APA 7 (made-up source):
Okafor, D., & Brandt, L. (2020). Community gardens and neighborhood food access. Journal of Example Studies, 12(3), 45–61. https://doi.org/10.1000/example.2020.123
Okafor and Brandt surveyed residents living near community gardens… (your annotation continues here).
The same source in MLA 9:
Okafor, Daniel, and Lena Brandt. “Community Gardens and Neighborhood Food Access.” Journal of Example Studies, vol. 12, no. 3, 2020, pp. 45-61, https://doi.org/10.1000/example.2020.123.
How to write a strong annotation
Summarize the main point. In one or two sentences, state the source's argument or purpose and its key finding.
Describe the evidence. Mention the method, data or examples the author relies on (a survey of 300 residents, interviews, archival records).
Evaluate it. Is the author an expert? Is it peer-reviewed or current? Note strengths, limitations or possible bias.
Connect it to your project. Say how you will use it: background, supporting evidence, a counterargument or a method to follow.
Write in your own words. Paraphrase rather than copy the abstract; quote sparingly and only when the exact wording matters.
Always check the finished list against your assignment instructions and the official style guide; instructors sometimes ask for small variations such as a different title, single spacing or a 1-inch annotation indent.
Frequently asked questions
What is an annotated bibliography?
It is a list of sources, formatted like a reference list or works cited page, where each citation is followed by a short paragraph (the annotation) that summarizes the source and often evaluates its quality and explains how it relates to your research.
How do you format an annotated bibliography in APA 7?
Use the same format as an APA reference list: double spacing, entries in alphabetical order by the first author's surname and a 0.5-inch hanging indent. Each annotation starts on a new line under its reference and the whole annotation is indented 0.5 inch from the left margin. Instructors often title the page Annotated Bibliography in bold, centered.
How do you format an annotated bibliography in MLA 9?
Format the entries like a works cited list: double-spaced, alphabetized, with a 0.5-inch hanging indent. The annotation follows each entry, indented as a block from the left margin. The page title is centered without bold, usually Annotated Bibliography or Annotated List of Works Cited. Check whether your instructor wants a 0.5- or 1-inch annotation indent; this tool offers both.
How long should an annotation be?
Most assignments ask for about 100 to 200 words per source, roughly one paragraph of four to eight sentences. Follow your instructor's word limit if there is one; the word counter under the annotation box helps you stay on target.
What is the difference between summary, evaluative and reflective annotations?
A summary (descriptive) annotation explains what the source says and how. An evaluative (critical) annotation judges the author's credibility, evidence, strengths and limits. A reflective annotation explains how you will use the source in your own work. Many assignments combine all three.
Does the tool write the annotation for me?
No. It gives you sentence starters with placeholders to replace, but the summary and evaluation must come from your own reading of the source. That keeps the work original and avoids plagiarism.
Can I open the file in Google Docs?
Yes. The DOCX download opens in Microsoft Word, Google Docs (upload it to Drive, then open with Google Docs), LibreOffice and Pages, keeping the hanging indents, italics, double spacing and page numbers.
Are all the tools on FreeToolCabin tested for quality and accuracy?
Yes! Every tool on our site undergoes automated Q/A testing in real browser environments to ensure high precision, correct output, and zero errors. If you happen to spot a bug or have a suggestion, please contact us at [email protected] and our team will review it right away.