A review of the literature on any given topic or issue is not just a list of everything on that topic or issue. It presents the current state of research on a carefully defined topic.

It is like a short essay. It will:

• identify important articles, reports, and books on the topic,
• summarize those publications,
• synthesize those publications in a meaningful way

1.  Focuses on Previous Research

2.  Shows How Your Research Fills a Gap

3.  Tells Why Your Research is Needed

4.  Sets Boundaries to Your Research