A literature review is different than an annotated bibliography. In a literature review, you should search for articles and research relevant to your research topic to:

Identify gaps in the field: Are there areas that have not been thoroughly researched, have been misjudged, or have recent developments that may add to or change past studies?

Identify why your topic is necessary: How would your study contribute to the body of literature and research, and how do other authors connect to your topic?

The literature review will be the start of your larger paper and should:

• Introduce the topic and use a thesis statement.
• Use headings to separate the concepts.
• Explain why you chose the literature you did.
• Synthesize and summarize the information gained from the literature.
• Analyze both the strengths and weaknesses of the literature.
• Note where the literature supports your proposed research and where there are gaps.
• Consider all the possibilities of your topic.
• Provide a conclusion that synthesizes the concepts and identifies further research yet to be done.

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