Conducting a Literature Review

Definition of a literature review: "A literature review is both a summary and explanation of the complete and current state of knowledge on a limited topic as found in academic books and journal articles. It is NOT an annotated bibliography" or a just a description of what you read. (Mongan-Rallis, 2014)

Purpose of a literature review: "The primary purpose is to provide the reader with a comprehensive background for understanding current knowledge and highlighting the significance of new research." (Cronin, Ryan, & Coughlan, 2008)

Steps for Writing a Literature Review

• Decide on a topic
• Identify and review the literature, gathering keywords & vocabulary for further searches
• Analyze the literature
• Summarize the literature
• Synthesize the literature prior to writing the review
• Write the review

Link to Conducting a Literature Review subject guide.

Links to helpful YouTube tutorials

Part One Writing the Literature Review

Part Two Writing the Literature Review

Part Three Outline and Write the Review of the Literature