There is very likely no student who could not benefit from a good example of a literature review.  This section of the research proposal and dissertation is one of the most confusing for a lot of scholars.  The main reason is that a lot of them do not understand what, precisely, it is.

So what is a literature review?  Contrary to what the name suggests to a lot of students, it is not the review of a book or poem – although it certainly can be, under certain circumstances.  In this case, however, the word “literature” applies to, literally, any halfway reputable source written on any topic about which you might be writing.  Say, for instance, your research proposal revolves around the idea of secondhand smoke.  There is an abundance of published information available on that subject.  You would, naturally, be using a lot of that material as references and sources in your dissertation.  In your literature review, you will be reviewing that literature, specifically as it relates to your argument.

Sometimes, the best way to learn anything is to learn by example.  In this case, a well written example of a literature review is the best way to see how to set yours up, not to mention how to write it.  The literature review is such a crucial part in the whole dissertation writing process, studying as many examples as you possibly will never hurt you.

You can always look at an entire research proposal example as well.  By doing this, you can see how the literature review should flow with the rest of the paper.  You can see where in how it fits in, and how it will affect the rest of the content.  Of course, you can always choose to focus solely on a literature review example as well, there is no harm in that.  In fact it would not be a bad idea to keep a really good, wonderfully structured example with you through the dissertation writing process, so that you will always have a reference point at hand.

With all of this being said, there are several components you need to look for in an example of a literature review.  It needs to contain an overview of the research proposal subject, wherein you will include a discussing of the issue, what questions you are trying to answer, and your thesis.  Next comes a division of the work, place within separate categories.  It is a good idea to have a “pro” category and a “con” category.  Other popular choices include theoretical and/or philosophical categories, empirical categories, structural categories, et cetera.  Depending on your preference, you should look for an appropriate literature review example.  Lastly comes the conclusion of the review, which explains how the literature supports the research.

Your professors can be invaluable in helping you find an information example of a literature review.  Some can be found on the Internet; in order to find good ones, make sure they come from a reputable source.  Your university’s library is also an excellent source.

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