How to Write a Literature Review on Studies

A review of literature presents an overview of published writings on a specific topic. The purpose is to describe and summarize a series of articles, reports, books or other writings in an area of interest. The literature review provides the reader with a guided tour through the most important thinking on the topic. In some areas, such as the sciences, social sciences and business, the focus is on the most up-to-date sources. In literature and humanities, however, the writings may be based on a common theme or critical perspective.

Instructions

    • 1

      Narrow the selected topic as much as possible by asking specific research questions. This will define and limit the scope and organization of the review.

    • 2

      Research the topic in reference works written by specialists on the subject. Find these online or in the reference section of a library.

    • 3

      Organize the material in a way that is appropriate to the topic: chronologically or by development of a scientific project, business trend or theme.

    • 4

      Write the draft beginning with an introduction that explains the background of the topic, its significance and the reason for the organization of the review.

    • 5

      Summarize each work in the series, explaining how it relates to the subject of the review and why it is discussed in this section. It may also include analysis and evaluation of the works. This will be the longest and most developed part of the review.

    • 6

      Finish with a conclusion that summarizes the subject and gives a brief reminder of the stages of the review. Write with a statement on the significance of the project, experiment or theme and the conclusions or results.

    • 7

      Include a list of references in the preferred documentation style, often MLA or APA.

Learnify Hub © www.0685.com All Rights Reserved