APA Literature Review Template for Effective Research Writing

The APA literature review template is designed to help you structure your review in a clear and professional manner. While the exact content may vary depending on your research topic, the following structure is universally accepted in academic writing:

1. Title Page and Introduction

The first step in your APA style literature review is the title page. This page should include:

• The title of your paper
• Your name
• Your institutional affiliation

The introduction should outline the purpose of the literature review, explain its significance, and present your research question. It is crucial to provide a clear thesis or statement of intent early on, guiding the reader through the upcoming sections.

2. Body of the Literature Review

The body of your review will include the analysis of the sources you’ve gathered. It should be divided into themes, subtopics, or trends identified in the research, with each section clearly labeled. Key elements to include:

• Synthesis of Key Studies: Summarize and synthesize major studies relevant to your topic. Highlight key findings and methodologies.
• Comparison and Contrast: Compare different perspectives and research outcomes. Discuss any contradictions or agreements in the literature.
• Critical Analysis: Provide your analysis of the studies. Point out strengths, weaknesses, and potential biases in the research.

3. Conclusion

The conclusion of your APA style literature review should summarize the main findings, emphasizing their relevance to your research. Discuss any gaps or unresolved issues in the literature and explain how your research will contribute to filling these gaps.

4. References

Follow APA guidelines to ensure proper citation of all sources used. Your reference list should be alphabetically arranged and formatted according to the APA style literature review rules.