Q: What should be in an annotation?
A: An annotation consists of two parts. The first part is a brief summary of the source, usually no more than a few sentences. The second part is an analysis of the source.
Q: What elements should go in an analysis?
A: Ask yourself some of the questions below in the "Evaluating Information" box. Also consider the Literacy Frames, especially the concept of authority. Sometimes an analysis will also include how you intend to use the source in your paper and why it will be useful for you specifically. Don't just say "because it is about my topic"! How does the source help you? Does it establish background or context? How does it help you to build your argument?
Q: How long should an annotation be?
A; Typically an annotation is about 150 words. You want to be concise, but still give enough detail for the annotation to be useful to your reader. But your professor will let you know the specifics for your assignment.
What does the title tell you about the content?
Can you find information about the author?
What is the date? Is there a date?
Who is the intended audience?
How relevant is the resource?
How objective is the content?
Does the author document his or her sources?
Here are some websites with good examples of annotations that you can follow.