GEN1121, Fall 2021 2
Literature Review
Prepare the first draft of the literature review for your research paper (Times New Roman,
font size 12, double-spaced). The literature review should contain:
• An overview of the articles, books, documents that you have read;
• An overview of what research has been done on your topic;
• Elaboration on key definitions and terms, if necessary;
• An analysis of what people have written (compare, contrast, and critique); and
• Issues that are raised by your review (gaps, weaknesses, etc.).
Most importantly, think and write about what these different experts and writers have to say
about your research topic. You should have at least five references for your literature review.
However, the number of references depends on how much information you need to write an
effective literature review on your topic.
Important: Your literature review will probably change and grow when you hand in a final
version along with your complete report; additional sections may be added at that time.
The Literature Review: Expectations
Note: Your grade will depend on your completion and inclusion of each of these sections.
1. Components of a literature review.
A. Introduction: Re-introduce your topic and its importance. Show that you have read widely
on your topic from academic sources by giving a brief overview of what is written about in