Literature reviews are systematic syntheses of previous work around a particular topic. Nearly all scholars have written literature reviews at some point; such reviews are common requirements for class projects or as part of theses, are often the first section of empirical papers, and are sometimes written to summarize a field of study. Given the increasing amount of literature in many fields, reviews are critical in synthesizing scientific knowledge.
Card, Noel A. (2010). Literature review. (2010). In Salkind, N. (Ed.). Encyclopedia of Research Design. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.4135/9781412961288.n222
You may want to start your literature review from:
- Research Productivity Guide
This guide is a one-stop resource for an overview of research productivity tools that are open source or provided by SMU Libraries. You can reach out to the librarians if you need help on these tools.
- Databases that the Library provides access to.
Databases are convenient to use, once you know which databases to start with. Do ask your Librarian if you need help.
- Journals
Journals are pretty useful, especially if you know exactly which journals that you want to read or follow. If you just have a topic in mind, it is probably better NOT to start from the Journals.
- Google Scholar
If you are a fan of Google Scholar, make sure that you use all the important features such as Find it @ SMU Libraries, Proxify, and Google Scholar button.
- Librarian
Yes, the Librarians (human being, not a bot) can help you to navigate through the process. Email us at library@smu.edu.sg
