A literature review surveys books, scholarly articles, and any other sources relevant to your research topic or thesis statement. It should provide a theoretical summary or critical evaluation of these scholarly works. You will need to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize the research that you’ve found on your topic. A literature review should give context to your thesis statement and, if possible, reveal any gaps in current literature.

What is the purpose of a literature review?

• To demonstrate to your readers what you know about your topic
• To bring your readers up-to-date and fill them in on what has been published on your topic
• To allow you a better understanding of your topic

5 Steps for Completing your Literature Review

1. Brainstorming and Choosing a Topic
2. Finding Sources
3. Evaluate Sources and Taking Notes
4. Identify Themes and Patterns
5. Writing and Citations

Learn More: 

1. Literature Review
2. Annotated Bibliography
3. Understanding & What it isn't (Part 1 Video)
4. Step-by-Step & Writing Process (Part 2 Video)