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Applied Geology: Literature reviews

How to find literature reviews

If you are looking for examples of published literature reviews, there are a few basic techniques you could use:

  • Search the library catalogue using your topic keywords and the term "literature review", eg

                                    "engineering" AND "literature review"

  • Some databases (eg ProQuest, etc) allow you to search on "reviews" or "literature review" under document type.  Do a topic search, then refine your results to "reviews" or "literature review" by clicking in the box next to 'document type'
  • Search review journals such as Annual Reviews as these tend to focus specifically on reviews only

Tips

Here is a list of important tips that you might want to note when undertaking a literature review:

  • Engage in an effective and comprehensive literature search
  • Use the major publications in the field - there are so many articles available on your research topic.  You need to be selective in what you use, so select the best in that field
  • Ensure you critically evaluate the literature; don't just summarize it!
  • References - keep bibliographical records of all sources referred to

Theses

Before starting your literature review, you may wish to look at samples of theses 

Printed Curtin theses are housed in the John Curtin Prime Ministerial Library at Bentley and some in Kalgoorlie while others are available online through eSpace.

For more information on how to find theses written by masters and doctoral students from around the world, check out the library website on Theses