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10. Literature Reviews

There are different types of literature review – so make sure you know what task exactly your teacher is expecting from you, and read the instructions.

Literature reviews are basically critical evaluation of texts (articles, chapters, books). They present the content (e.g. summaries), analyse it, look at the similarities and differences between texts, and evaluate.

Stages in doing a literature review – It depends on the task (see above), but basically:

• Find models of the type of literature review you need to do
• Read easier articles first – get an overview, get familiarity, start forming your own opinions, then…
• Be a sceptical reader:

-   Ask questions about the content and see if the answers come up in the text.
-   Notice any doubts or suspicions you have, be open to any questions in the back of your mind
- Is there possible bias?
- Are counterexamples considered?
- Does the evidence really prove the writer’s argument?
- Evaluate: compare, contrast, find possible problems/limitations

Elements to include in your review [follow any guidelines you are given by your tutor / department.]:

• Introduce: background/context/overview
• Focus: narrow it down
• Organise your review appropriately (e.g. theme, chronology)
• Describe the texts
• Compare and evaluate
• Discuss implications

For much more, have a look at our Literature Reviews page.