Literature Review Checklist

A practical checklist for what separates a strong literature review from a list of summarized sources. Check items off as you go; your progress is saved in this browser.

Organized by theme or debate, not by publication date or author
Ends by clearly identifying the specific gap your research fills
Includes recent sources (last 5-10 years), balanced with foundational older work where relevant
Represents contrasting perspectives, not just sources that support your argument
Synthesizes sources in conversation with each other, rather than summarizing one after another
Citation style is consistent throughout and matches your required format
Clearly connects to the methodology chapter that follows
Written in your own analytical voice, not just a string of quotations

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