7.8 How to Do a Literature Review

A Comprehensive Guide for Doctoral Researchers

Introduction

A literature review is an essential component of doctoral research, providing a critical evaluation of existing knowledge related to the research topic. It situates the research within the broader scholarly context, identifies gaps, and justifies the study’s significance. This article outlines the systematic approach to conducting an effective literature review.

Purpose of the Literature Review

  • To summarise, analyse, and synthesise existing research relevant to your topic.
  • To identify theoretical frameworks and methodological approaches used previously.
  • To highlight gaps, contradictions, or emerging trends warranting further investigation.
  • To establish a foundation for your research questions and objectives (Booth, Sutton & Papaioannou, 2016).

Steps to Conduct a Literature Review

Step 1: Define the Scope and Objectives

  • Clarify the specific themes, timeframes, and types of sources to include.
  • Determine whether the review is narrative, systematic, or thematic based on research needs (Hart, 1998).

Step 2: Search and Gather Sources

  • Use academic databases such as JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar.
  • Employ relevant keywords, Boolean operators, and citation tracking.
  • Collect diverse sources including journal articles, books, theses, and reports.

Step 3: Organise and Categorise Literature

  • Use reference management software (e.g., EndNote, Zotero) to manage citations.
  • Categorise literature into themes, theories, methodologies, or chronological order.

Step 4: Critically Analyse and Synthesize

  • Evaluate the strengths, limitations, and relevance of each source.
  • Identify patterns, relationships, and gaps in the literature.
  • Avoid mere description; focus on critical engagement.

Step 5: Write the Review

  • Structure the review logically, often starting with broad context and narrowing to specific topics.
  • Integrate sources cohesively, linking to your research questions.
  • Ensure clear, concise, and academic writing style.

Conclusion

A well-conducted literature review forms the backbone of doctoral research, guiding the development of research questions and methodology. Systematic and critical engagement with existing scholarship is paramount.

References

  • Booth, A., Sutton, A., & Papaioannou, D. (2016). Systematic Approaches to a Successful Literature Review (2nd ed.). London: Sage.
  • Hart, C. (1998). Doing a Literature Review: Releasing the Social Science Research Imagination. London: Sage.

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