The literature review is one of the most important components in any research paper as it shows the reader that the proper research has been taken and there is proof that their research and their sources are relevant. A literature is not a simple list, but a thorough investigation of the works used in the research paper.

Some tips for writing a literature review are:

1. Choose a topic narrow enough to instill quality investigations

2. Be brief, but do not overdo it. The literature review has to give the needed information without being vague

3. Divide the works into categories based on the ones that support the point of view, those that go against it, or those that have other ideas and conclusions

4. Check all of the questions regarding the study and make sure that the literature answers them

5. Be objective, ruling out any authors that may have seemed prejudice or biased

6. Research the methodological issues presented by the authors to ensure their work and their credit

7. Give an evaluation as to why the author’s arguments and conclusions are convincing

8. When listing the literature in the review, find a trend between all of the works, such as patterns in the methods used, the population that was tested, results, and conclusions

It is important to stick with literature that pertains only to the subject matter, which is why it is a good idea to have an exceptionally narrow topic. It is easier to find more material when the subject is small, and it leaves room to present the reader with a large, concrete argument.

The importance of a literature review is to show the reader how the material relates to the study. It is vital to quote as little as possible, using the literature to back up the arguments that you, as the writer, present to the reader.