Understanding Literature Reviews

What is a Literature Review?

• A piece of creative writing

• A piece of academic writing that critically evaluates material relevant to a research project

• A summary of a novel

• A list of books to read

Where does a Literature Review often appear in academic writing?

• At the end of the document

• In the middle of the document

• At the beginning of the document

• It is not included in academic writing

Why is it important to write a Literature Review?

• To show you can write long essays

• To demonstrate understanding of the topic and how it relates to other research

• To confuse the reader

• To fill up pages

How is a Literature Review different from an Introduction?

• It provides a summary of the entire document

• It helps the reader understand how your work fits into the wider academic conversation

• It gives a detailed history of the topic

• It is a list of references

Can a Literature Review be part of other chapters?

• Yes, it can be part of the Introduction

• No, it must always be a separate chapter

• Yes, but only in the Conclusion

• No, it is not allowed in any other chapter

What does a Literature Review demonstrate about the author?

• Their ability to write poetry

• Their understanding of the topic and critical evaluation skills

• Their ability to draw

• Their cooking skills

Is it always necessary to write a separate Literature Review?

• Yes, always

• No, you can evaluate research throughout your work

• Only if the teacher says so

• Only in science subjects

What is NOT a purpose of a Literature Review?

• To demonstrate subject knowledge

• To show how your work relates to other research

• To provide a list of your favourite books

• To critically evaluate other academic work

What does a Literature Review help the reader understand?

• The plot of a story

• How your work fits into the wider academic conversation

• The weather forecast

• The rules of a game

What might you include in a Literature Review?

• A list of your hobbies

• A critical evaluation of relevant research

• A recipe for cake

• A map of your town