Literature Review

Rhetorical Functions

• Illustrates importance and need for project
• Justifies methodical (methodological?) choices
• Demonstrates familiarity with subject

Should

• Flesh out background of study
• Critical assessment of area of study
• Establish need for current and future research projects

Tips

• Categorise literature into topic clusters
  • Find relevant positions regarding project
  • Build on conclusions leading to project
  • Demonstrate where literature is lacking
• Literature Review shows ability to listen to scholarly conversation on topic and that one can make valuable contribution
• Should be able to answer:
  • Why study further
  • What contribution study will make