* Personal Blogs or Websites: These are often subjective, biased, and lack the peer-reviewed verification found in academic sources.
* Social Media Posts: Similar to blogs, social media is primarily for casual communication and lacks the scholarly rigor needed for a literature review.
* Unpublished or "Grey" Literature: This includes reports, presentations, or technical documents that are not peer-reviewed and may not have undergone rigorous quality control.
* Unreliable or Biased Sources: Avoid sources known to promote specific agendas or have a history of misinformation. This includes sources that promote pseudoscience, conspiracy theories, or demonstrably false information.
* Popular Magazines or Newspapers: While these can provide background information or general context, they are not usually suitable for the in-depth analysis required for a literature review.
* Wikipedia or Other Crowdsourced Information: While Wikipedia can be a good starting point, it's not a reliable source for a formal review as it is constantly edited and may lack academic rigor.
Important Considerations:
* Purpose of the Review: The type of literature review will determine appropriate sources. For example, a historical review may include archival documents, while a systematic review will focus on rigorously designed studies.
* Target Audience: Who will be reading your review? Tailoring sources to your audience is crucial.
* Citation Style: Always follow the citation style guidelines provided by your institution or publisher.
Remember: Always prioritize high-quality, peer-reviewed academic sources for your literature review. If you're unsure about the suitability of a source, consult your instructor or a librarian.