Here are some basic guidelines for writing strong annotations in any category that we all need to follow:
- Highlight only the text you intend to annotate.
- Use complete sentences.
- Use proper grammar, including capitalization and punctuation.
- Avoid (unnecessary) vulgar language.
- Avoid text speak (e.g. btw, lol, etc.)
- Be respectful of each other’s work and ideas when responding to previously published annotations.
- If you post an image, provide relevant information (artist? title? date?) when applicable.
- Be sure to use quotation marks when using someone else’s published words in your annotation (yes, plagiarism rules apply here too!).
- Provide short-form parenthetical citation within your annotation for any sources used [e.g. (Author Last Name, Short Title, Date)].
- Keep track of your sources; full bibliographic citations for all print and online sources will be added to the site’s “Bibliography” page.
- PROOFREAD your annotation!