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Literature reviews are crucial in higher degree research, setting the scene and contextualising your work in the broader context. Some, like systematic and scoping reviews, can even be standalone, publishable works. If you’re unsure which type suits your project, read on!
Systematic reviews
A systematic review comprehensively collects and critically analyses multiple studies on a specific topic using a structured methodology. These reviews set out to answer a specific research question by following an established method like the JBI Manual, Cochrane Handbook or Campbell Collaboration. They often include critical appraisal and risk of bias assessment.
These reviews are suitable for projects with:
- a clear, well-defined research question
- sufficient time to follow rigorous methods.
Scoping reviews
A scoping review maps existing literature on a broad topic, identifying key concepts, gaps and evidence without the detailed synthesis required in systematic reviews. Methods include Arksey & O’Malley or the JBI Manual for Scoping Reviews.
These reviews are suitable when the:
- research question is broad or exploratory
- aim is to inform future research directions
- research area is new and underexplored.
Other types of reviews
Narrative reviews:
- summarise and critically interpret existing research
- do not follow a specific method
- often found at the beginning of empirical journal articles, or as part of a thesis or research proposal.
Bibliometric analysis:
- use metrics to quantitatively evaluate citation patterns, trends, co-authorship and impacts.
How to choose
When deciding, ask yourself:
- Am I answering a specific question or mapping broad literature?
- Is there substantial existing research or is the topic new?
- Do I need specific recommendations or am I trying to identify research gaps?
- Do I need a strict methodology or a flexible approach?
You can also explore review types, and watch the video: Systematic versus scoping review: What’s the difference?
Find out more
Discover more about working with literature. If you have questions or need one-on-one advice, contact the Library.
