Definition of a Background Literature Search
A background literature search is more properly known as a background literature review. A background literature review does not necessarily review literary works such as poems and novels, though it might. Instead, it reviews the prominent published research on a given topic within one's major field of study. Background literature reviews are common assignments for upper level undergraduate students and graduate students; they are also used by professionals in the field.
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Purpose
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A background literature search, or review, serves as an introduction to a specific topic. At the student level, it gives the writer an overview as she prepares to do more in-depth study of the topic. At the professional level, it often is the stepping stone for a writer to establish credibility before adding her contributions in writing on the subject matter.
Characteristics
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A background literature review, at the very least, provides summaries with citations of the publications being reviewed. It might also synthesize the information together. According to guidelines on writing literature reviews as given by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, literature reviews "might trace the intellectual progression of the field, including major debates." Thus, they provide a history of the topic before the writer makes new contributions.
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Scholarly Sources
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Unless otherwise directed, scholarly sources must be used in a background literature review. Scholarly sources are those which are deemed to be highly credible. Such sources include peer reviewed journal articles and books. Government publications are also usually considered scholarly. Be careful when using online sources since .edu and .org sites are not always scholarly.
Peer Review
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Peer reviewed material has been examined by professionals in the field of study before being accepted for publication. This process ensures that the information is reliable and valid. For this reason, many background literature reviews require the writer to use only peer-reviewed sources.
Preparation
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Before beginning a literature review, find out the required number and type of sources. Be sure of the structure you will be required to use; find a published literature review in your general field of study to use as a model if you are not given specific structural requirements.
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References
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