Writing a Literature Review
Introduction
Purpose:
To explain the focus and establish the importance of the subject
Components:
Framework, selection criteria, and parameters
Background and historical context
Overview of existing work
Field controversies and recent research challenges
Purpose statement that either:
Evaluates current research state (for standalone reviews)
Connects to proposed research (for thesis preparation)
Body
Purpose:
Summarize and evaluate current field knowledge
Identify major themes, trends, and research agreements/disagreements
Structure:
Organized with clear headings/subheadings
For thesis preparation: Focus on research directly supporting your project
Conclusion
Purpose:
Synthesize evidence and demonstrate significance
Analyze current field status
For research introductions:
Highlight research gaps
Connect previous research to methodology
For standalone reviews:
Discuss practical applications
Suggest future research directions
References
Follow required style guide (APA, MLA, ASA)
Format citations according to guidelines
Learn more about proper citation at our Citation Guide