Focuses on evaluating the thesis of an article and how to structure your annotations, including some vocabulary you can use to write about texts and arguments.
A Word document you can download and use as a template. From the APA Style website. Be sure to DELETE the student bio at the end of the paper before handing your assignment in :-)
Some tips to choose the most relevant articles
Read the abstract and conclusion in the article - Is this article directly related to your topic? If not, make sure you are using the best search terms for your topic (identify an article that is directly related to your topic and look at the Subject headings, Cinahl headings or MeSH terms attached to it for search word ideas).
If you see a particular author referenced more than once, they may be an influential expert in the field. Search for all of their articles.
Don't ignore the References - bibliographies can lead you to more key articles related to your topic.
Many search tools have a Cited By notation under some of the articles. This will link to other researchers who used that article in the References of their research. If other researchers are referencing the article, it is likely important research in the literature.
Filter your search results to reviews, randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews or meta-analyses articles on your topic. These types of articles have very stringent inclusion/methodology criteria and are stronger sources for evidence based medicine decision making. Even if you aren't allowed to include review or meta-analysis articles, the bibliographies, they will likely mention key research you will want to include in your research.
Academic books or encyclopedia entries written on the topic may include influential research and researchers in their bibliographies that you can search for to include in your review.
If you really want to build a comprehensive search, you may want to go directly to the Cinahl Headings in Cinahl or the MeSH Headings if searching PubMed or Medline, so you can systematically select the best terms for your search.
