Getting Started on Your Literature Review

There is no one single correct method to writing a literature review. Therefore, this resource is a guide only. What is a Literature Review A literature review is an examination of the research that has been conducted in a particular field of study. Hart (1998) defines it as The literature review should compare and contrast different authors views on an issue group authors who draw similar conclusions criticise aspects of methodology note areas in which authors are in disagreement highlight exemplary studies highlight gaps in research show how your study relates to previous studies show how your study relates to the literature in general conclude by summarising what the literature says A literature review is a select analysis of existing research which is relevant to your topic, showing how it relates to your investigation. It explains and justifies how your investigation may help answer some of the questions or gaps in this area of research. A longer literature review may have headings to help group the relevant research into themes or topics. This gives a focus to your analysis, as you can group similar studies together and compare and contrast their approaches, any weaknesses or strengths in their methods, and their findings. One common way to approach a literature review is to start out broad and then become more specific. Think of it as an inverted triangle. However, remember that the literature review needs to relate to and explain your research question. Although there may seem to be hundreds of sources of information that appear pertinent, once you have your question you will be able to refine and narrow down the scope of your reading First briefly explain the broad issues related to your investigation you dont need to write much about this, just demonstrate that you are aware of the breadth of your subject. Then narrow your focus to deal with the studies that overlap with your research. Finally, hone in on any research which is directly related to