Literature Review Notes

Q. What do they do?

–Sources clumped, bringing together different texts in conversation. Sometimes across disciplines, or upon a particular topic, or that define terms.

–Find out what’s in the conversation, and where you fit in. Know the language, learn the words. “I have words.” Know the words. Sound highly educated. Don’t just say you know the words, use them.

–Brings in terms that are relevant, defines terms. You might bring in “jargon” or specialized language, but your audience may not know the terms. Also different scholars/researchers may define/use the words differently.

–“Jargon”: specialized vocabulary (related to disciplines). May use different terms to describe the same things across disciplines.

–Links sources together, bring sources together, next to one another, detailed and summary, critiques, key ideas, or a theory for analysis.

–Establishes the sub-genre (the specific focus of the analysis), or also the frame, how you will frame this study. The text/idea you are using to “read” or analyze your subject. (For example, if you are reading this illustrator clearly was going for the mathematical reading of a Cal-Mex taco (lot of logos there).

–Background for readers who may not be familiar with research, so you are also summarizing the important work you found that shapes how you interpret what you are researching.

–Usually happens early in an article/scholarly text. Also note the citation styles. Also note that not all literature reviews will give extensive quotes of material, but some may offer key or important quotes. Usually sources cited might be involved with larger ideas or theories.