Literature Review: Introduction

What is a literature Review?

"A literature review is a written document that presents a logically argued case founded on a comprehensive understanding of the current state of knowledge about a topic of study. This case establishes a convincing thesis to answer the study's question." 

(Machi, L.A. & McEvoy, B.T. 2009, The literature review: six steps to success)

Key literature review features:

• Is a critical, in-depth evaluation of research already undertaken on a specific topic.
• Allows you to demonstrate your ability to identify relevant information and to outline existing knowledge.
• Identifies the gap in the research that your work will address and produce a rationale for your own research.
• Is not a list of all previous research, but rather an assessment of the research.

This guide provides general guidance - check with your supervisor/lecturer/school to find out if there are any specific requirements for your literature review before proceeding.

Preparing for your Literature Review

The following are key steps you need to consider when preparing your literature review

• Choose your topic
• Think about your purpose
• Scope read
• Formulate your research question - think of sub questions
• Where the Literature will be found - what sources you need to search
• Consider your reader and audience
• What the literature and perhaps data will look like and require

This guide was developed by Sandra Dunkin and Susan Boyle