A literature review is a comprehensive summary of previous research on a specific topic. It provides an overview of the current knowledge in a particular field, highlighting key findings, gaps in the existing literature, and areas for future research. The following is a sample literature review from Purdue Owl that demonstrates how to structure and organize your own literature review:
Introduction
The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and its importance. It should also outline the scope and purpose of the literature review.
Example:
The purpose of this literature review is to examine the impact of social media on mental health. With the rise of social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, there is growing concern about the potential negative effects of excessive social media use on mental well-being. This review will explore the existing research on this topic, highlighting key findings and identifying gaps in the literature.
Body
The body of the literature review should present and summarize the key studies and findings related to the topic. It should also critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each study.
Example:
Several studies have found a link between social media use and mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and loneliness. For example, Smith et al. (2018) conducted a longitudinal study of college students and found that higher levels of social media use were associated with increased symptoms of anxiety and depression over time. However, other studies have yielded conflicting results. Jones et al. (2019) found no significant relationship between social media use and mental health outcomes in a sample of high school students.
Conclusion
The conclusion of the literature review should summarize the key findings, discuss the implications of the research, and suggest directions for future research.
Example:
Overall, the existing research on the impact of social media on mental health is mixed. While some studies have found a negative relationship between social media use and mental well-being, others have found no significant effects. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms underlying this relationship and exploring potential interventions to mitigate the negative effects of social media on mental health.
By following the structure and organization of this sample literature review, you can effectively review and synthesize the existing research on your chosen topic. Remember to critically evaluate the studies you include, identify gaps in the literature, and propose directions for future research.