To write an outstanding literature review, follow these five key steps:

I - Search for Relevant Literature

Start with a clearly defined topic related to your research question. For instance: "What's the impact of social media on body image among Generation Z?"

Create a list of keywords associated with your query and use them to search academic databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, EBSCO, Project Muse (humanities & social sciences), Medline (life sciences & biomedicine), EconLit (economics), or Inspec (physics, engineering & computer science).

II - Evaluate Sources

Assess each publication based on its relevance and credibility. Ask yourself:

  • What question or problem does the author address?
  • How are key concepts defined?
  • Are established frameworks used or innovative approaches taken?
  • What results and conclusions emerge from the study?


III - Identify Themes, Debates & Gaps

Organize your literature review's argument by understanding connections between sources. Look for:

  • Trends: patterns in theory, method, or results
  • Themes: recurring questions or concepts across the literature
  • Debates: conflicts and contradictions among authors
  • Pivotal publications that changed the field's direction


IV - Outline Your Literature Review Structure

Choose an approach to organize your body:

  • Chronological (tracing development over time)
  • Thematic (dividing into subsections addressing different aspects of the topic)
  • Methodological (comparing results from various research methods or disciplines)


V - Write a Compelling Conclusion

Summarize key findings, emphasizing their significance and how your research addresses gaps in existing knowledge.

Tips for Writing an Outstanding Literature Review:

  • Use transition words to draw connections between ideas
  • Critically evaluate sources by mentioning strengths & weaknesses
  • Show how your work contributes new insights or builds upon established theories

By following these steps and tips, you'll craft a literature review that showcases your expertise in the subject matter. Remember to proofread thoroughly before submitting.