Final answer:
Each source for an argumentative research paper should critically analyze the chosen reading, contributing to a persuasive argument. An annotated bibliography summarizes and evaluates each source's relevance, supporting the paper's thesis and demonstrating critical reading skills.
Step-by-step explanation:
When writing an argumentative research paper, each source should contain a critical argument on the reading you've chosen. This is important because critical reading is essential for developing a substantial and persuasive argument in your paper. It involves assessing the validity of arguments, identifying assumptions, biases, and agendas in the sources you use.
An annotated bibliography is often required in this context to summarize and evaluate the relevance of each source to your thesis. It will help demonstrate your ability to engage critically with the literature and complement your own argument. You should aim to choose sources that provide a range of perspectives and analyze them to support your viewpoint.
Critical reading skills will also improve your own writing by helping you to craft arguments that are persuasive and well-substantiated with evidence that is reasonably free of bias. Every source in your research should be leveraged to prove that the thesis statement of your paper is valid and well-considered.