Literature Review Dissertation Example: A Comprehensive Guide

A literature review for dissertation is an analytical summary of existing research on your topic. It evaluates previous studies, identifies patterns, and highlights gaps in knowledge. This section is not just about summarizing but also critically analyzing sources to provide a framework for your research.

When writing your dissertation literature review, consider the following:

• Establish a clear objective for your review.
• Organize your sources thematically or chronologically.
• Provide critical analysis and highlight their relevance to your study.

Steps to Craft an Outstanding Literature Review

To create a compelling literature review dissertation example, follow these structured steps:

1. Define Your Scope

Begin by clarifying the focus of your research. What are you aiming to achieve with your dissertation? Narrow your scope to ensure your review is detailed and relevant.

2. Gather Reliable Sources

Conduct comprehensive research to collect academic articles, books, and journals related to your topic. Use credible databases like PubMed, JSTOR, or Google Scholar.

3. Analyze and Synthesize Information

While reviewing each source, take notes on the methodology, findings, and conclusions. Compare and contrast these elements across different studies to identify trends and debates.

4. Organize Your Review

Structure your literature review for dissertation to enhance readability. Common structures include:

• Thematic: Organizing based on key themes or topics.
• Chronological: Arranging studies by their publication date.
• Methodological: Grouping research based on methods used.

5. Critically Evaluate Studies

Don't just describe—critique the studies. Highlight their strengths and weaknesses, their relevance to your research, and any gaps they fail to address.

6. Write a Cohesive Narrative

Ensure your review flows logically. Link one section to the next, creating a cohesive narrative that leads seamlessly into your research aims.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best writers can stumble when drafting their dissertation literature review. Avoid these pitfalls:

• Lack of Focus: Ensure every source you include is directly relevant to your research question.
• Overloading with Information: Avoid overwhelming readers with excessive details. Stick to concise, focused analysis.
• Ignoring Critical Analysis: Don't just summarize; evaluate the significance of the studies.