Organize your review according to the following structure:
- Abstract (it might help to write this section last!)
- Provide a concise overview of your primary thesis and the studies you explore in your review.
- Introduction
- Present the subject of your review
- Outline the key points you will address in the review
- Use your thesis to frame your paper
- Explain the significance of reviewing the literature in your chosen topic area (e.g., to find research gaps? Or to update your field on the current literature?)
- Body (structure may vary depending on the topic)
- Consider dividing it into sections, particularly if examining multiple methodologies
- Examine the literature thoroughly and systematically, maintaining organization — don't just paraphrase researchers, add your own interpretation and discuss the significance of the papers you found)
- Discussion/Conclusion
- Reiterate your thesis
- Summarize your key findings
- References
- Ensure proper formatting of your references (stick to a single citation style — be consistent!)
- Use a citation manager, such as Zotero or EndNote, for easy formatting!
Check out UNC's guide on literature reviews, especially the section "Organizing the Body."
