How can you write a review article that highlights new research and synthesizes existing findings?

1 Define your scope

Before you start writing, you need to define the scope of your review article. What is the main question or problem that you want to address? What are the key concepts and terms that you will use? How will you select and organize the sources that you will review? You can use different criteria to narrow down your scope, such as the relevance, quality, currency, and diversity of the sources. You can also use different frameworks to structure your review, such as chronological, thematic, methodological, or theoretical.

2 Search and evaluate the literature

The next step is to search and evaluate the literature that is relevant to your scope. You can use various databases, search engines, journals, books, and other sources to find and access the literature. You can also use different tools and strategies to manage and organize your sources, such as citation managers, reference lists, notes, and summaries. You should evaluate the literature critically and analytically, looking for strengths, weaknesses, gaps, contradictions, and implications.

3 Synthesize and integrate the findings

The core of your review article is the synthesis and integration of the findings from the literature. This is where you show how the sources relate to each other, to your scope, and to the existing knowledge in your field. You should not just describe or summarize the sources, but rather analyze and interpret them. You should highlight the new research that advances or challenges the current understanding of your topic. You should also identify the common themes, patterns, or trends that emerge from the literature.

4 Discuss and conclude the review

The final step is to discuss and conclude your review article. This is where you answer your main question or problem, and explain the significance and implications of your findings. You should also acknowledge the limitations and gaps of your review, and suggest directions for future research. You should not introduce new information or sources that you have not reviewed before. You should also avoid making sweeping generalizations or unsupported claims.

5 Write and revise the article

After you have completed the steps above, you need to write and revise your review article. You should follow the guidelines and format of the journal or publication that you are targeting. You should also use clear and concise language, and avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical terms that are not defined or explained. You should also check your grammar, spelling, punctuation, and citations. You should also seek feedback from your peers, mentors, or editors, and make revisions accordingly.

6 Publish and disseminate the article

The last step is to publish and disseminate your review article. You should submit your article to the journal or publication that you have chosen, and follow their submission and review process. You should also respond to the comments and suggestions of the reviewers and editors, and make any necessary changes. Once your article is accepted and published, you should share it with your audience, such as your colleagues, students, collaborators, or funders. You should also monitor and measure the impact and reach of your article, and engage with the feedback and responses that you receive.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?