Step by step guide on how to write a Literature Review

How to Write a Literature Review as a Research Aspirant

A literature review is a critical summary and analysis of existing research on a specific topic. It identifies key theories, debates, gaps, and developments in the field, helping to justify your own research by showing where it fits and how it contributes. 

1. Understand the Purpose

A literature review is not just a summary of existing works. It:  

- Identifies gaps in current knowledge  

- Shows how your research fits into the field  

- Highlights theoretical and methodological approaches  

- Justifies your research question or problem  

2. Define Your Scope

Before reviewing, clarify:  

- What is your specific research topic or question?  

- Which themes, subtopics, or areas are relevant?  

- Are there timeframes, regions, or disciplines involved?  

3. Search and Select Literature  

Use reliable academic sources:  

- Databases like JSTOR, Google Scholar, Project MUSE, Shodhganga  

- University library resources  

- Focus on peer-reviewed journals, scholarly books, and major studies  

Tip: Create a table to track authors, titles, key findings, methods, and relevance to your topic.  

4. Organize Your Review

Choose a logical structure:  

- Thematic: Group sources by topic (e.g., Sacred Forests, Climate Fiction)  

- Chronological: Trace the development of ideas over time  

- Methodological: Compare different research approaches or frameworks  

5. Critically Engage  

Don’t just summarize—analyze:  

- What are the arguments and contributions of each work?  

- What methods are used?  

- Are there contradictions or limitations?  

- How does each work relate to your study?  

- What questions remain unanswered?  

6. Write the Review

Structure your writing in three parts:  

- Introduction: Outline your topic, scope, and goals  

- Body: Discuss the literature in organized sections (themes, trends, debates)  

- Conclusion: Summarize major findings, identify gaps, and link to your research direction  

7. Use Academic Tone and Proper Citations

- Maintain a formal and analytical tone  

- Use transition words to connect ideas (e.g., however, moreover, in contrast)  

- Follow the citation style required in your field (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.)  

8. Revise and Refine

- Ensure clarity, coherence, and flow  

- Eliminate repetition or excessive detail  

- Ask for feedback from peers or mentors  

SAMPLE LITERATURE REVIEW 

Visit : LITERARY SPHERE 

Thank you! 

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