What is a literature review / annotated bibliography?
A literature review is a synthesis and critical evaluation of the relevant literature in a particular topic. It is written as a narrative.
An annotated bibliography is a reference list of selected publications in a topic that incudes:
- A summary of the main arguments or idea of each source
- A critique or evaluation of the source’s usefulness, reliability, objectivity or bias
- A reflection on how the source fits into your research
Both provide a critical review of the literature
Review articles
Review articles are publications synthesizing research already conducted on a topic. Use them to find the gaps and advances in your area.
- ScopusA multidisciplinary abstract and citation database of peer reviewed literature, book reviews and conference proceedings.
- Web of ScienceA collection of citation databases and citation analysis tools covering the sciences, social sciences, arts and humanities.
- Annual reviews onlineThis database provides review journals from across the sciences, with articles that review significant primary research literature to help you keep up to date in the area of your research. Titles include Annual Review of Earth and Planetary Science.
- Cited reference searchingFind more articles on your topic.
Books and articles
The Literature ReviewCall Number: LB2369 .R525 2012
The Literature Review : six steps to successCall Number: LB1047.3 .M33 2016
The Literature Review2008 Online
Related library guides
Planning your search strategy and how to find, store, organise, evaluate and critique information for your literature review.
A brief overview of systematic reviews and resources to support producing one.