Summary of How To Write A Literature Review In 2025 (Including AI Tools) - FREE TEMPLATE + Examples)

Summary of "How To Write A Literature Review In 2025 (Including AI Tools) - FREE TEMPLATE + Examples"

In this video, Emma provides a comprehensive guide on writing a literature review, breaking down the process into three main steps. She emphasizes the importance of a literature review in academic research, describing it as a foundational element that synthesizes existing research and lays the groundwork for new studies.

Main Ideas and Concepts:

• Definition and Importance of a Literature Review
  • A literature review presents and synthesizes existing research, providing a theoretical foundation for new studies.
  • It is essential for understanding previous research and establishing a context for your own work.
• Three Main Steps to Crafting a Literature Review
  • Step 1: Finding and Cataloging the Literature
    • Use tools like Google Scholar and academic databases (e.g., ScienceDirect, PubMed) to find relevant articles.
    • Pay attention to citation counts but also consider relevance and recency.
    • AI tools can assist in finding articles and summarizing key findings, but verify their claims.
    • Catalog articles in a structured format (e.g., a spreadsheet) to digest and synthesize information effectively.
  • Step 2: Planning Your Chapter
    • Create a rough outline before writing to avoid disjointed sections.
    • Include three key ingredients in your outline: the theoretical framework, empirical research, and research gap.
    • Be flexible with your outline; it can evolve during the writing process.
    • Literature reviews can be structured thematically, chronologically, or by methodology.
  • Step 3: Writing the Literature Review
    • Approach writing as an iterative process; start with a messy draft and refine it through multiple edits.
    • Focus on critical writing that explores implications rather than just describing the literature.
    • Ensure accurate referencing to avoid plagiarism and loss of marks; consider using a reference management tool.
• Additional Resources
  • Free literature review template and a catalog worksheet are available for download.
  • A webinar titled "Literature Review 101" offers more detailed insights into the literature review process.
  • A "Literature Review Boot Camp" is available for those seeking in-depth guidance.

Speakers or Sources Featured:

• Emma: The primary speaker providing the guide and insights on literature reviews.

Notable Quotes

— 01:21 — « In the world of academic research you'll almost always be standing on the shoulders of giants. »

— 05:04 — « The process of cataloging forces you to digest and synthesize all of the information and make connections between articles in your own mind. »

— 08:16 — « It's essential to approach your writing as an iterative process. »

— 08:51 — « Descriptive writing describes the what while critical writing digs into the so what. »

Category

Educational

Video