Performing a literature review

This report is intended as a guide for teachers and engineering students when conducting research is part of course-work requirements. Discussion includes a description of a literature search, the purpose of a literature review finding sources (especially for engineering) and a general strategy to help conduct an efficient and productive literature search. Using tools such as this report, students can become more pro-active about their research projects. Teachers can use this report, among other tools, to begin dialog with their students about expectations for research assignments. Two key steps in a literature search are: (i) finding sources; and (ii) synthesizing information. Each of these is addressed in two of the major sections in this report, as well as how the literature search relates to the entire research process. Then pertinent information is repeated in the summary section for convenience. An annotated reference list is included for ease in finding other useful guidance.