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Writing up

Typical structure of a literature review

Introduction (explains the main topics you are investigating – gives the necessary background information on research. So explain significance early on…why its relevant)

  • Context (describe & define topic)

  • Focus & purpose of the review

  • Scope (use scope to set limits – what you will and won’t cover)

 

Body

  • Methodology (how literature was found. Methodology must be included in final report, so another reason to TAKE NOTES.)  

  • Other people’s research  (compare, contrast, critically review and comment on literature found.)

  • Discussion that leads logically towards conclusion

 

Conclusions  (summarises where research is at and how your project will build on it. Demonstrate insight into what you have discovered)

  • A recap & your ideas from what you have critically assessed

  • take home messages for the reader

 

Bibliography

  • The publications cited or referred to in your review.

It is important that anyone reading your review should be able to identify and obtain the literature you have cited.

  •     Check with UoM for correct style. Reference manager programs allow output in any style.