How do you synthesize relevant sources for a literature review?

Scoping the literature is such an important step. It helps identify whether you research will add to the field, whether it had already been researched recently and any gaps in literature. It is also a necessity when carrying out a systematic review. As you need to establish whether there is enough published literature to answer your proposed question. For example, my initial Systemic Review question only yielded 4 studies from a scoping search. Indicating at present there was not enough literature available on the topic.

Distilling key sources for a literature review starts with crystal-clear intent. Frame your primary research question, anchor on pivotal concepts, and set boundaries for your topic’s breadth. Clarity streamlines your search, ensuring your literature review remains both insightful and aligned to purpose.

The research onion model is really good when ensuring that the research questions, methods, and objectives align; I can mostly detect if a studied idea is new or expands upon previous research. When I consider how these components fit into the research onion model, it helps in ensuring that the literature obtained from prior studies adds to what is being studied or provides guidance to a new study in that subject matter or industry.

Dive into subject-specific databases. Use precise keywords to find the right sources. Don’t forget to check references in related studies—they can be goldmines. As you pick sources, weigh their trustworthiness and relevance. Look at the author’s background, the research methods, and the number of citations. Aim for reliable and impactful sources.

When developing your research topic, consider the methodologies and frameworks utilized in other sectors that are similar to yours. These, however, ought to correspond with the significance of your study, including your research methods and design. Based on my observations, the research may require the development of an innovative method tailored to an industry, even if it has already been used in another, but the curation and classifications of its relevance to your subject matter are of the most important.

For a standout literature review, seamlessly blend your sources. Tools like synthesis maps have been invaluable to me, truly spotlighting connections. Use clear terms to show source relations. Crafting a cohesive narrative not only presents the literature’s panorama but deeply resonates with your research’s core.