Annex A – 4

LITERATURE REVIEW
OR
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Why Conduct a Review of Literature?

 to provide background to the research being conducted

 to gain insight into researching techniques which have been employed in
previous studies
 to search for facts and information that will support the research question or
hypothesis

Limit the Problem Area

The problem should be small enough and sufficiently specific for adequate treatment and
competent analysis. Research articles and the summary chapter of thesis often suggest
recommendations for further research.

Define the Problem

“Definition” means that the researcher knows exactly what he is looking for, so that data
when collected and analyzed actually relates back to the problem.

Avoid Unnecessary Repetition

Do not assume that because most of the existing research adopts one method that it is the
only method or the correct method available in the circumstance. Do not use the approach
if you have reservations about its application to the problem.

Search for New Approaches

Be alert to research approaches which may have been overlooked. Be prepared to adopt a
different viewpoint, particularly in areas where research is scarce.

Recommend Suitable Methods

Methodology should be appropriate to the research problem. Compile a checklist which

gives you reference ideas on research design, instrumentation, sampling and data
collection and analysis from various studies.
Sample Current Opinions

Newspapers, magazines and non-technical articles may contain unique ideas that have not
yet been researched.

Writing the Text of the Review of Literature

In writing the review of literature there are certain rules that you should observe.

The review should be:

Complete : All the necessary information relating to the research problem is

included.

Correct : All quotations, facts and figures are accurate and verifiable.

Clear : Words and terms used in the descriptions are unambiguous.

Coherent : Ideas are arranged in a logical sequence.

Concise : The review is in appropriate length considering the overall length

of the report.