Research paper

Sample APA Annotation

Ehrenreich, B. (2001). Nickel and dimed: On (not) getting by in America. Henry Holt and

Company.

In this book of nonfiction based on the journalist's experiential research, Ehrenreich attempts to

ascertain whether it is currently possible for an individual to live on a minimum-wage in America.

Taking jobs as a waitress, a maid in a cleaning service, and a Walmart sales employee, the

author summarizes and reflects on her work, her relationships with fellow workers, and her

financial struggles in each situation.

An experienced journalist, Ehrenreich is aware of the limitations of her experiment and the

ethical implications of her experiential research tactics and reflects on these issues in the text.

The author is forthcoming about her methods and supplements her experiences with scholarly

research on her places of employment, the economy, and the rising cost of living in America.

Ehrenreich’s project is timely, descriptive, and well-researched.

The annotation above both summarizes and assesses the book in the citation. The first paragraph provides a brief summary of the author's project in the book, covering the main points of the work. The second paragraph points out the project’s strengths and evaluates its methods

and presentation. This particular annotation does not reflect on the source’s potential importance or usefulness for this person’s own research.