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Step 1
Understand the purpose of a literature review for a scientific paper. A review of this type generally consists of a critical analysis of research that has previously conducted on a particular topic. In a scientific paper, it can be used to help you identify gaps in research on a particular topic -- and, in turn, ways to structure an experiment in order to fill those gaps.
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Step 2
Choose sources that are appropriate for your literature review. Articles in peer-reviewed journals are the best sources. Peer-reviewed journals publish only studies that have been carefully reviewed and analyzed by fellow scientists. Other primary or firsthand accounts -- such as patient charts, autobiographies, research collected and information collected by interviews and surveys -- are also good sources. Secondary sources may be included if necessary, but should not be relied on exclusively.
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Step 3
Summarize and record the articles you review for your own records. Include all citation information, so that you will have it readily available should you choose to include the source in your literature review.
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Step 4
Choose which articles are most relevant for inclusion in your literature review.
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Step 5
Critically review the sources you wish to include. Ask yourself the following questions as you compose your review: Is the abstract clear and concise? Are the researchers goals clearly defined? Is the hypothesis clear and rational? What theories or assumptions guide the study? How is the study set up? Is the data reported in a manner that supports or rejects the hypothesis? Is the data reported clearly and accurately? Is the author qualified to conduct the research? And is his or her writing concise and clear?
