Literature Review

Literature review initiates the research process. In fact, it should be an ongoing activity throughout the research process to ensure that your research is current and relevant.

The following guide addresses the main ideas of a literature review. It provides a checklist as well as an analysis of a write up to show what makes a good literature review. Additional materials were also provided to discuss the importance of choosing credible sources.

Four examples of past students' research have been given to you to practise with the checklist after you have gone through the main guide.

Materials for download

1. Main Guide
   • Additional links found in the guide
   • Checklist to literature review that you could use when you are reviewing the samples below.
   • Material on how to discern sources during information search is also provided.
   • Review of a write up that displayed breadth and depth in its literature review.
2. Samples for discussion
   • Biology example
   • Biological engineering example
   • Engineering example
   • Physical science example
3. Samples for discussion (Teachers' copy)
   • Biology example
   • Biological engineering example
   • Engineering example
   • Physical science example
4. Further reading