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Literature reviews - research guide

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What is a literature review?

A literature review is a critical analysis of published texts, or literature, on a particular topic. The review should describe, summarise, evaluate, classify and compare this literature. A literature review gives an overview of:

1) What has been said; 2) Key writers; 3) Prevailing theories and hypotheses; 4) Questions being asked; and 5) Appropriate and useful methods and methodologies.
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Why is a literature review important?

A literature review:

  • Identifies areas of prior research to prevent duplication of effort
  • Clarifies important definitions and terminology
  • Examines each text’s contribution to knowledge of the topic
  • Describes the relationship of each text to other texts
  • Interprets previous research and resolves conflicts amongst previous studies
    • Examines each text’s contribution to knowledge of the topic​
    • Describes the relationship of each text to the others
    • Resolves conflict amongst previous studies
  • Influences future research or reviewer’s own research project
  • Identifies knowledge gaps and identifies areas for further research
  • Places your research in the context of the existing literature
  • Focuses your knowledge of the topic and aids the design of your research
  • Creates a theoretical framework for your research

What does a literature review demonstrate?

Your literature review should:

  • Show that you understand the topic and why it is important
  • Demonstrate your ability to access relevant and current literature in the field
  • Demonstrate your ability to objectively evaluate research and highlight trends in the area
  • Provide an overview of the topic with clear and justified links to your conclusion

Starting a literature review

Resources

Featured resource

SAGE Research Methods (SRM) allows researchers to explore methods and concepts to help them design research projects, understand particular methods or identify a new method, conduct their literature review and research, and write up their findings. Since SRM focuses on methodology, it can be used across  disciplines.

Study and research support

Beginner study and research support:

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