States the purpose of the literature review. Outlines the findings/conclusions of the review. Suggests why the review is important/significant (points to future research from the gap in the knowledge...

States the purpose of the literature review. Outlines the findings/conclusions of the review.

Suggests why the review is important/significant (points to future research from the gap in the knowledge identified).

INTRODUCTION States the objectives/purpose/thesis of the review (why are you writing a literature review?).

Should hook the reader (get their interest i.e. why is this topic important?).

States type of sources used to gather information (method).

Outlines aspects of the topic to be covered.

Outlines the organisational pattern of the review.

DISCUSSION/ BODY USING HEADINGS/TABLES AND FIGURES IF APPROPRIATE

Critically analyses the published material in chosen field of study.

Provides a logical sequence and headings under which the published material is reviewed.

Identifies themes, trends and controversies (use the sanity table).

Identifies strengths and weaknesses of the research/literature.

Addresses the major implications of the findings.

Identifies if interpretations lead to new points of view/hypotheses – the gaps in knowledge.

Uses tables and figures to summarise/highlight key information. Address the significance of table/figure in the text.