How to Write a Literature Review

This short document (about 5400 words) explains the definition of a literature review. It helps explain what a literature review is and is not, and gives ideas on how it differs from other types of academic writing. It is full of “do” and “don’t do” tips for easy reading.

The sister publication “How to Write a Literature Review: Workbook in Six Steps” gives an easy step-by-step process to write a literature review. Following the six steps, one by one, will help you write a dynamic paper with a minimum of anxiety. Each step has activities that you can do if you feel stuck, that will help propel you toward completion.