Decide on a topic or subject you are going to research, if your professor has not already given you one. Choose a topic that is within the scope of the assignment. Old Dominion University suggests if the annotated bibliography requires ten sources, you will need a topic that requires extensive research.
Research the topic you are interested in writing your annotated bibliography on. Keep a record of all sources for later use. Take notes on your research, making connections between sources. Write down observations or any other points of interest.
Plan the angle or focus you want your annotated bibliography to take.
Begin the proposal with a clear topic statement. Explain the purpose and direction of your annotated bibliography immediately for your reader in a concise sentence. An annotated bibliography proposal usually does not require an introductory paragraph.
Explain the context surrounding your area of study. Describe the time period, social issues, artistic movements or scientific developments that illuminate the relevance or value of your topic.
Detail why you are interested in this topic, or what makes this topic exciting or timely.