Introduction: Gives a quick idea of the topic of the literature review, such as the central theme or organizational pattern.
Body: Contains your discussion of sources and is organized either
chronologically, thematically, or methodologically.
Conclusions/Recommendations: Discuss what you have drawn from
reviewing literature so far. Where might the discussion proceed?
Chronologic
Thematic
Methodological
The ‘style’ and ‘tone’ of the literature review
- Not too many quotes. Quotes are OK for specific ‘new’ terms introduced by the literature e.g. Karen Barad ‘entanglement’ or to emphasise a point, but they should be short and kept to a minimum. You are showing you know the material, using your voice.
- Keep your own voice. Start and end paragraphs in each section with your own ideas and your own words about they key texts.
- Be careful when paraphrasing: be accurate, reference the author.