Introduction
A literature review is an essential component of any research project and especially crucial for a dissertation.
IT involves critically analyzing existing academic sources to identify and evaluate the key concepts, theories,
and trends related to the research topic. Conducting a comprehensive literature review not only demonstrates
your understanding of the subject matter but also helps you establish the significance and originality of your
research. This article will guide you through the art of conducting a comprehensive literature review for your
dissertation.
Understanding the Purpose of a Literature Review
Before you start diving into the extensive body of literature, IT is crucial to understand the purpose of a
literature review. Essentially, IT allows you to:
- Identify the current state of knowledge on your research topic.
- Recognize the key theories, concepts, and methodologies relevant to your research.
- Identify gaps or controversies in the existing literature that your research aims to address.
- Establish a theoretical framework for your research.
- Provide context and justification for your research problem.
- Generate research questions and hypotheses.
- Synthesize different viewpoints and arguments in the field.
Conducting a Comprehensive Literature Review
1. Define your research question
Before embarking on your literature review, clearly define your research question or problem statement. This will
guide your search and ensure you stay focused on relevant sources.
2. Choose your sources wisely
Selecting the right sources is crucial for a comprehensive literature review. Start by exploring academic
databases, online libraries, and journals related to your discipline. Be selective and prioritize recent
scholarly works, peer-reviewed articles, and books from reputable publishers.
3. Conduct an effective search
Develop a systematic search strategy using appropriate keywords, Boolean operators, and search filters. This
will help you retrieve relevant and diverse materials. Document your search strategy to ensure transparency and
replicability.
4. Screen and evaluate the sources
Thoroughly evaluate the relevance and quality of each source by reading the abstracts, introductions, and
conclusions. Skim through the main sections to see if the content aligns with your research question. Organize
and categorize the selected sources for easier reference.
5. Analyze and synthesize the literature
Take comprehensive notes while reading each source. Identify the key arguments, methodologies, and findings of
each study. Look for patterns, connections, and gaps in the literature. Create tables, charts, or concept maps
to visually analyze and synthesize the information.
6. Critically evaluate the literature
Once you have collected and analyzed the literature, critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each
source. Assess the credibility and methodology of the studies, identify any biases, and determine their
relevance and applicability to your research question.
7. Write your literature review
Based on your analysis and evaluation, start writing your literature review. Structure IT logically, with an
introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Provide a brief overview of the main theories and concepts,
and present your arguments in a coherent and organized manner. Make sure to cite your sources properly and
provide a balanced perspective.
8. Revision and editing
After completing the initial draft, revise and edit your literature review. Check for clarity, coherence,
grammatical errors, and formatting. Seek feedback from your advisor or peers to ensure the quality and
effectiveness of your review.
Conclusion
Conducting a comprehensive literature review is a crucial step in the process of writing a dissertation.
Through rigorous evaluation and synthesis of existing literature, you can establish the context, significance,
and originality of your research. By defining your research question, choosing appropriate sources, conducting
effective searches, and critically analyzing the literature, you can construct a compelling literature review
that contributes to the knowledge in your field.
FAQs
1. How many sources should I include in my literature review?
There is no fixed number of sources you should include in your literature review. The quantity of sources
depends on the scope and depth of your research. However, strive to include a diverse range of high-quality
sources that contribute to the key arguments and concepts relevant to your research question.
2. How do I avoid plagiarism in my literature review?
To avoid plagiarism, always cite your sources properly using the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA,
Harvard, etc.). Paraphrase and summarize the information from the sources in your own words, and use quotation
marks when directly quoting a source. Keep detailed records of your sources to ensure accurate referencing.
3. Where can I find suitable sources for my literature review?
You can find suitable sources for your literature review in academic databases, online libraries, and scholarly
journals. Also, explore the reference lists of relevant articles and books, as they often provide additional
sources. Consult with your academic advisor or librarian for guidance in finding reputable and relevant
sources.
4. How can I identify gaps in the existing literature?
To identify gaps in the existing literature, look for conflicting findings, unanswered research questions, or
emerging trends within your field. Pay attention to the limitations or areas for further investigation mentioned
in the studies you review. By critically evaluating the literature, you can identify where your research can
contribute new insights or address existing gaps.
5. Can I include sources that are not in English?
Yes, you can include sources in other languages if they are relevant to your research question. However, IT is
important to provide translations or summaries of these sources in your literature review. If possible,
incorporate both English and non-English sources to ensure a comprehensive review of the literature.
Remember to consult your university’s guidelines and seek advice from your dissertation supervisor to ensure
your literature review meets the specific requirements of your program.
References:
- Lastname, F. M., & Lastname, F. M. (Year). Title of the article. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page-Page.
- Lastname, F. M., & Lastname, F. M. (Year). Title of the book. Publisher.
- Lastname, F. M., & Lastname, F. M. (Year). Title of the article. Journal Name, Volume(Issue), Page-Page.
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