What's a literature review? It's a comprehensive survey of scholarly sources that provides insight into current knowledge and identifies gaps in existing research. This essential step helps you develop your thesis or dissertation topic by analyzing theories, methods, and debates relevant to the subject matter.
To write an outstanding literature review, follow these five key steps:
I - Search for Relevant Literature
Start with a clearly defined topic related to your research question. For instance: "What's the impact of social media on body image among Generation Z?"
Create a list of keywords associated with your query and use them to search academic databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, EBSCO, Project Muse (humanities & social sciences), Medline (life sciences & biomedicine), EconLit (economics), or Inspec (physics, engineering & computer science).
II - Evaluate Sources
Assess each publication based on its relevance and credibility. Ask yourself:
- What question or problem does the author address?
- How are key concepts defined?
- Are established frameworks used or innovative approaches taken?
- What results and conclusions emerge from the study?
III - Identify Themes, Debates & Gaps
Organize your literature review's argument by understanding connections between sources. Look for:
- Trends: patterns in theory, method, or results
- Themes: recurring questions or concepts across the literature
- Debates: conflicts and contradictions among authors
- Pivotal publications that changed the field's direction
IV - Outline Your Literature Review Structure
Choose an approach to organize your body:
- Chronological (tracing development over time)
- Thematic (dividing into subsections addressing different aspects of the topic)
- Methodological (comparing results from various research methods or disciplines)
V - Write a Compelling Conclusion
Summarize key findings, emphasizing their significance and how your research addresses gaps in existing knowledge.
Tips for Writing an Outstanding Literature Review:
- Use transition words to draw connections between ideas
- Critically evaluate sources by mentioning strengths & weaknesses
- Show how your work contributes new insights or builds upon established theories
By following these steps and tips, you'll craft a literature review that showcases your expertise in the subject matter. Remember to proofread thoroughly before submitting.