Guide the Reader
Example: “These studies all show similar trends in student motivation.”
Synthesise, Don’t List
Example: “While Author A found improvement in test scores, Author B reported no change.”
Use a Clear Structure
Example: “This section focuses on studies using surveys to measure learning.”
Keep a Logical Flow
Example: “Building on the previous theme, this next group of studies looks at…”
Use Your Own Academic Voice
Example: “These gaps in the literature show why this study on international students is needed.”
Recap: Steps for Planning and Writing a Literature Review
When planning and structuring a literature review, start by clearly defining your research question or topic so you know what to focus on.
Next, search for and select the most relevant sources such as journal articles, books, and reports.
Organise your review around key themes, trends, debates, or methodologies rather than summarising each source one by one.
Begin your review with an introduction that explains the purpose and scope of your study, then present your main themes in a logical order, showing how they connect to your research question.
Finish with a conclusion that highlights gaps in the existing literature and explains how your own research will address them. This structure helps your review tell a clear, critical, and coherent story about what is known and what still needs to be explored.
How-To Videos
Watch these videos to help you study better.
Start here What counts as good information? How to find good information