Writing a dissertation literature review is one of the most important and challenging parts of your dissertation. It demonstrates your understanding of existing research, shows how your study fits within the academic conversation, and justifies the need for your research. A well-written literature review strengthens your dissertation and increases the chances of approval from supervisors and examiners.
This guide explains how to write a dissertation literature review step by step, with practical tips to help you meet university expectations.
What is a Dissertation Literature Review?
A dissertation literature review is a comprehensive and critical discussion of existing academic research relevant to your dissertation topic. It goes beyond summarising previous studies by systematically evaluating theories, concepts, models, and empirical findings to demonstrate how your research fits within the existing body of knowledge.
The dissertation literature review helps establish the theoretical framework of your study, identifies key themes and trends in the literature, and highlights research gaps or unresolved issues that justify the need for your research. It also shows your ability to engage critically with scholarly work, assess the strengths and limitations of earlier studies, and understand how different methodological approaches have been applied in your field.
In addition, a well-written dissertation literature review provides the foundation for your research design by supporting your choice of methods, variables, and analytical approach. For examiners and supervisors, it is evidence of your academic maturity, research skills, and understanding of the broader academic context in which your dissertation is positioned.
Purpose of a Dissertation Literature Review
- Demonstrates your knowledge of the subject area
- Identifies research gaps your study will address
- Shows theoretical and methodological foundations
- Prevents duplication of existing research
- Justifies your research questions and objectives
Step 1: Understand Your Research Scope
Before you begin writing, clearly define:
- Your research topic
- Key themes and variables
- Timeframe of studies to include
- Types of sources (journals, books, reports)
A focused scope ensures your dissertation literature review remains relevant and structured.
Step 2: Conduct a Comprehensive Literature Search
Use reliable academic databases such as:
- Google Scholar
- JSTOR
- Scopus
- PubMed (for health-related topics)
- University libraries
Use keywords, synonyms, and Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) related to your dissertation literature review topic.
Step 3: Evaluate and Select Relevant Sources
Not every article you find should be included. Select sources based on:
- Relevance to your research objectives
- Credibility of authors and journals
- Publication date (recent studies preferred)
- Research methodology quality
Critical evaluation is essential for a strong dissertation literature review.
Step 4: Identify Key Themes and Research Gaps
After reading your sources:
- Group studies by themes, theories, or methods
- Compare findings and perspectives
- Highlight contradictions or limitations
- Identify gaps your research will address
This synthesis distinguishes a high-quality dissertation literature review from a basic summary.
Step 5: Structure Your Dissertation Literature Review
A clear and logical structure is essential for writing a high-quality dissertation literature review. Proper organisation helps demonstrate critical thinking and allows examiners to follow the development of ideas with ease. Below is a commonly accepted structure used across universities:
Common Structure: Dissertation Literature Review
- Introduction – outlines scope, purpose, and organisation
- Thematic or Chronological Sections – discusses key studies
- Critical Analysis – evaluates strengths and weaknesses
- Research Gaps Summary – links literature to your research
- Conclusion – summarises key insights
Step 6: Write Critically, Not Descriptively
Avoid listing studies one by one. Instead:
- Compare authors’ viewpoints
- Analyse methodologies and findings
- Discuss implications for your research
Critical writing shows academic maturity and strengthens your dissertation literature review.
Step 7: Use Proper Referencing and Citations
Follow your university’s required referencing style:
- APA
- Harvard
- MLA
- Chicago
Consistent and accurate referencing is essential to avoid plagiarism.
Step 8: Edit and Proofread Thoroughly
Before submission:
- Check logical flow and coherence
- Remove repetition
- Verify citations
- Improve academic tone and clarity
Editing enhances the overall quality of your dissertation literature review.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Dissertation Literature Review
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve your dissertation outcome. Writing a summary instead of critical analysis
- Using outdated or unreliable sources
- Lack of structure or clear themes
- Ignoring contradictory findings
- Poor referencing
Tips for Writing the Best Dissertation Literature Review
Clearly define your research topic and objectives before starting
Use recent, credible, peer-reviewed academic sources
Write critically by analysing and comparing studies, not just summarising them
Organise literature into clear themes for better structure
Link existing research directly to your study and research questions
Follow your university’s referencing style consistently
Edit and proofread to improve clarity and academic quality
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FAQs – Dissertation Literature Review
It typically accounts for 20–30% of the total dissertation word count, depending on university guidelines.
Yes. Almost all undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD dissertations require a literature review.
Yes, professional dissertation writing services can assist with research, structure, and critical analysis.
Use proper citations, paraphrase accurately, and follow your required referencing style consistently. Plagiarism-checking tools can also help ensure originality.
