In all academic writing we have to read and engage with texts related to the topic/s we are writing about to develop our knowledge and understanding of these topics. In a literature review for a dissertation, we review literature related to the topic we are interested in researching to refine the focus of our research.
Reading and engaging with relevant literature for a dissertation is necessary:
Before writing a literature review, we have to:
The organisation of a literature review depends on the themes / topics we want to focus on.
The introduction of our literature review should give an outline of:
After the introductory section of the literature review, we could organise the review to focus on certain themes.
Try to avoid writing a literature review that reads like a list of He said / argues...., She states / argues.... Try not to make authors of an issue or concept the focus of your review. Instead think about the topic or issue you would like to discuss, introduce it and then discuss how other authors have handled this issue.
| Introduction |
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| Describing previous research |
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| Summarising key findings |
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| Identifying gaps in the literature |
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Comparing and contrasting viewpoints |
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| Drawing conclusions |
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| Stating implications and future directions |
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The information skills required to complete a Literature Review or Systematic Search are covered extensively in our Finding Information Guide.
Not sure where to start? Take a look at the below pages:
Students completing a systematic search in Health disciplines should consult our Guide to Systematic Searches in Health.
The Journal of Suffolk Student Research is an online academic journal, dedicated to the publication of high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate student research undertaken by University of Suffolk students. The journal will showcase the most outstanding student research undertaken at the University of Suffolk. It aims to promote and recognise this outstanding student research by offering valuable early experience of academic publishing and the peer review process.