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There is no way to deny that the vast majority of college students are convinced that academic writing is the most challenging, time-consuming, and demanding assignment. No matter if you work on a trivial essay, research paper, literature review, or any other type of academic project, flawless writing skills, a deep understanding of the writing rules, impeccable analytical skills, and a plethora of other factors can help you achieve the desired results.
Irrespective of the similarity to other paper types, a literature review essay frequently seems to be the most overwhelming assignment to deal with. What makes it specific? Unfortunately, most learners have little to no idea what it should look like and why it is inevitable for a decent research paper.
If you also struggle with the completion of a similar assignment, it is the right time to look through the information available in the article. It will not only expand your vision of the significance of the essay type but will also unveil critical tips and recommendations on how to write a review of a research paper. Thus, if you are ready to dive into the specifications of the topic and enhance your chances to thrive with the assignment stress-free, keep reading the passage.
A Literature Review Definition
Working on the literature review is much easier if you are aware of the definition and key specifications of the paper type. Therefore, from my personal experience, I can tell that students should start writing any academic project with paper definition and its peculiarities. So, what is literature review?
It is a part of the academic writing project that deals with the analysis and review of scholarly books, articles, and other data sources that are relevant to a certain research paper, theory, or academic work. In the overwhelming majority of instances, people who write paper reviews strive to provide a detailed overview of the data sources that keep the research up-to-date and valid. In short, the section is a comprehensive description of the literature on the topic of the research, which emphasizes the key aspects of the analysis and adds to the prominence of the writing.
What is a literature review in research? It is an objective summary of the relevant literature on the topic under analysis. This type of writing is never used to develop certain arguments or present some new facts. Instead, it serves as the basis and foundation for the existing statements and research results.
The Purpose of Literature Review
No matter if you are working on a dissertation, thesis, or research paper, chances are you will have to learn how to write a literature review. Why is it so important to know the definition and peculiarities of the paper part? It will not only contribute to the relevance of your paper, but will also guide you through the writing process.
What is a literature review? It is your chance to emphasize your awareness and deep understanding of the topic, its criteria details, and scholarly context. Besides, the paper type gives an opportunity to develop the proper methodology for the research and keep the ideas systematic and consistent. Besides, if you take some of your time to read multiple examples of literature reviews in research papers, you will understand that it can be an excellent tool that will help you evaluate the current state of your research and showcase your knowledge and competence in the scholarly debates on the presented topic.
Proper meditation, research, analysis, and flawless mindfulness of a student is halfway to the desired success with the literature analysis writing. Follow the writing rules and specifications if you strive to succeed with the assignment without stress and anxiety.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Literature Review Writing
Working on the literature review is not easy, especially if you have never dealt with this type of academic writing before. Therefore, following the guidelines and writing tips is always a good idea. Check out effective recommendations that will help you write an appealing, reasonable, and interesting review without spending much time and effort.
Choose the Review Topic
When it comes to the literature review in the research paper, the choice of topic is obvious. It should coincide with the peculiarities of the analyzed studies. At the same time, it is still critical to consider the field analyzed in the work. Stay specific, choosing the selection methods that are the most effective. Avoid the themes that are too broad or generalized but rather focus on the topics that are meaningful and relevant to your research.
Browse the Web for Information
To detect the most relevant sources, you need to define the selection criteria first. Opt for the keywords you will use to search through the online libraries and databases to detect the inevitable information. Keep in mind that you will need not only the articles, books, and other academic papers that support your point of view but also the ones that present an opposing one.
Check out Sample Literature Reviews
This is the point you should never skip, as reading at least one literature review research paper example may considerably improve the quality of your work, advancing it to a completely new level. Analyze the structure, data presentation, writing methods, and effective tools that are used to present the inevitable information. Follow the pattern to succeed with your project.
Analyze the Literature Used in the Research Paper
If you take into account the literature review example you have read, you will know that the analysis of the used literature is a must. Estimate the findings of the study and make reasonable conclusions. Pay attention to the smallest details that can make a drastic impact on the result of your work.
Stick to the Formatting Rules
At this point, when you are done with the preparatory stage, you are ready to proceed to the writing process. Start with the introduction, which should be concise and enticing, go through the body part, and up to a conclusion. Keep every part of the literature review meaningful, informative, and useful. Include the most important details in every passage so that you thrive with the undertaking.
The flawless structure is surely one of the most beneficial points, but proper formatting is also a must. Check out the requirements of the literature review APA style to make the paper comply with the requirements.
Draw Reasonable Conclusions
Once you are done with the introductory part and body paragraphs, you need to come up with meaningful conclusions. Make sure you answer the question you have specified in the opening passage so that your paper is comprehensive and decent.
Proofread and Edit the Review
Once you are done with the literature review writing, it does not mean the work on the project is over. Instead, you should make sure all your findings are properly formatted and presented without any mistakes, inaccuracies, or errors. As for me, I prefer to take a little break right after I finish writing the first draft. Then, I scan the paper for grammar, punctuation, or spelling mistakes that can affect the quality of the text. The next time I focus on more profound details, such as the correctness of the presented facts, dates, and other aspects that can play a critical role. When the proofreading and editing are accomplished, the paper is ready to be submitted.
FAQ
What Is a Literature Review?
A literature review is a part of academic essay writing that presupposes the analysis and review of different data sources inevitable for deep and profound research.
Why Is Literature Review Included in Research Paper?
The main purpose of the literature review is to increase awareness of the topic under analysis and emphasize its relevance and scholarly context.
What Are the Key Steps of Work on Literature Review?
The writer should start the process by searching for relevant and credible literature. After the sources are evaluated, it is indispensable to identify themes, gaps, and debates. Then, it comes to the outline of the essay structure and finally writing the project.
