Literature Review
What is a literature review?
- Overview of published literature on an issue or topic
- Unlike a research paper, it does not present a new argument
- Support basis for new research by providing a summary or description and evaluation of each source.
- Tip: Be sure to discuss major themes or disparities you see across the literature. How does each reading fit in with the rest?
- Can be part of a larger research project or completed as a standalone work
How should I organize my literature review?
Literature reviews can be organized in many different ways. Some approaches to consider:
- Types of sources
- You might create sections for scholarly and popular publications,
- Chronology
- Organizing your sources by publication date will show the topic's history.
- Research Methodology
- If you are working with studies, grouping readings by methodology will illustrate the impact of different approaches.
- Tip: This would be useful if you are completing a new study and want to demonstrate a gap in current research.
- If you are working with studies, grouping readings by methodology will illustrate the impact of different approaches.
Why do literature reviews matter?
Literature reviews are helpful not only to your readers but they also benefit you because they:
- Provide a framework for new research
- Avoid repeating research that's already been done
- Show new directions for research
- Help your reader understand the context of your research
- Identify different methodologies
- Highlight important themes and subtopics