5 min read
Published on: Dec 21, 2017
Last updated on: Nov 22, 2023
Share this article
Finding yourself in a daunting struggle when it comes to writing a literature review?
You're not alone. It's often considered one of the most challenging aspects of academic writing.
But fear not! Our comprehensive guide is here to walk you through the essential steps and strategies to conquer this formidable task with confidence.
On This Page
A literature review is a comprehensive examination and analysis of existing literature and scholarly works on a specific subject or research topic.
Though not included in all types of research papers, it serves as a critical component in academic research.
It goes beyond a mere annotated bibliography. Instead of simply listing sources, a literature review summarizes and synthesizes sources for deeper evaluation. It uncovers the strengths and weaknesses within various sources. This evaluation helps in understanding their central theme and relevance to the topic at hand.
A robust review plays a crucial role in research papers, offering several key advantages:
In essence, a well-crafted literature review informs and elevates your research, ensuring its relevance and impact within your academic field.
Here are the types of literature review.
Crafting a literature review is a strategic process encompassing various vital steps to ensure a comprehensive and coherent review.
Here is how to write a good literature review:
Start by searching for scholarly sources that you will cite in your paper that are closely related to your research topic. Utilize reputable academic databases for literature search like Google Scholar or your university's library resources.
Using relevant keywords and phrases in your search is essential, experimenting with diverse combinations for a thorough collection of relevant sources.
To maintain a track of the scholar articles and sources, using a bibliography or reference management software like EndNote or Zotero.
Evaluate the collected sources critically. Assess their credibility, relevance, and diversity.
Check their origins from respected journals or publishers, and the expertise of the authors in the field.
Ensure that chosen sources align precisely with your research objectives, aiming for diversity in perspectives to enrich your review's depth.
Synthesize information from selected sources, identifying common themes, patterns, and trends.
Uncover connections and relationships among diverse research pieces to construct a cohesive narrative within your literature review.
In this step, determine the structure of your review. Decide whether a chronological, thematic, or methodological approach best suits your topic.
Create a clear outline to organize the sections or themes your review will cover, providing a roadmap for your writing.
Upon gathering and organizing sources, begin the writing phase:
In the final phase, conduct a thorough review, focusing on clarity and coherence. Carefully edit to ensure logical argument flow and concise writing.
Additionally, verify the accuracy and consistency of citations and references based on the chosen citation style (e.g., APA, MLA). This comprehensive revision process guarantees a polished and well-structured literature review.
Following these steps results in a structured and informative literature review that adeptly synthesizes existing research on your chosen topic.
The above guide will definitely help you understand what a literature review is and how to write one.
Here are some how to write a literature review samples:
The following are some common mistakes that should be avoided while writing a perfect literature review.
Now equipped with the essential steps to start your literature review, you're set on the right path.
Yet, if you find yourself facing challenges or needing additional support, our expert essay writing service is here for you. Our team is ready to provide expert guidance, ensuring you craft a strong and effective literature review.
So, whatever part of the research paper you need help with, we will deliver! Just say ‘write my research paper’ and let us take care of the rest.
WRITTEN BY
Nova A. (Literature, Marketing)
Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.
Nova Allison is a Digital Content Strategist with over eight years of experience. Nova has also worked as a technical and scientific writer. She is majorly involved in developing and reviewing online content plans that engage and resonate with audiences. Nova has a passion for writing that engages and informs her readers.
Research Paper Writing - A Step by Step Guide
Research Paper Examples - Free Sample Papers for Different Formats!
Guide to Creating Effective Research Paper Outline
Interesting Research Paper Topics for 2023
Research Proposal Writing - A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Start a Research Paper - 7 Easy Steps
How to Write an Abstract - A Step by Step Guide
Qualitative Research - Methods, Types, and Examples
8 Types of Qualitative Research - Overview & Examples
Qualitative vs Quantitative Research - Learning the Basics
Psychology Research Topics - 220+ Ideas
How to Write a Hypothesis In 7 simple Steps: Examples and Tips!
20+ Types of Research With Examples - A Detailed Guide
Understanding Quantitative Research - Types & Data Collection Techniques
230+ Sociology Research Topics & Ideas for Students
How to Cite a Research Paper - A Complete Guide
Excellent History Research Paper Topics- 300+ Ideas
How to Write a Research Methodology for a Research Paper
Website Data Collection
Are you sure you want to cancel?
Your preferences have not been saved.