Here is a brief example of a literature review and an explanation of its key parts: A literature review surveys scholarly sources on a specific topic. It analyzes, synthesizes, and critically evaluates the current knowledge landscape to identify relevant theories, methods, gaps, and debates.
Example structure and content from a PhD thesis literature review includes:
- Establishing research territory and significance: e.g. Eyewitness testimony errors cause many false convictions in the U.S.
- Identifying a research niche or gap: e.g. Investigating the impact of social influences on memory via witness discussion.
- Reviewing methodologies and key studies chronologically or thematically.
- Summarizing the rationale for chosen research methods.
A simple example excerpt might be: "Approximately 77,000 individuals are arrested in the United States each year based primarily on eyewitness testimony. Eyewitness errors are the most common cause of false convictions. However, previous research shows inconsistent results likely due to methodological differences. This thesis investigates how discussion between witnesses affects memory accuracy..."
A good literature review typically has an introduction (defining scope, purpose), a structured body (organized thematically, methodologically, or chronologically), and a conclusion summarizing key findings and gaps.
For more detailed examples and templates, comprehensive literature reviews from theses or academic projects are available in the search results.
If a specific example of a literature review on a particular topic is required, I can help provide that as well.
