Demystifying literature searches

Author(s): K. A. Mamy, K. R. Velingkar & C. Addington - Pages: 53-70

Abstract

A literature search is the basis of a well-designed literature review. This paper provides a step-by-step guide to conducting a literature search in order to review and appraise multiple articles on the same topic. It outlines ways of conducting a literature search from: developing a well-defined question; knowing where to look; planning and carrying out an advanced database search; collating results; and getting the most out of your work. The term “literature review” is an umbrella definition that encompasses around 14 types of evaluation. Because of the varying levels of robustness of different approaches, the type that you decide to conduct may have an impact on the extent to which you can trust your findings. The search tools discussed cover requirements and provide transferrable skills irrespective of review type.