The different stages of a literature search

Literature searches usually happen like this:

 

Litteratursøk

Starting a project: Broad, exploring searches

  • Maybe you only have an idea, interest, or subject in mind?
  • What knowledge already exists? What kind of knowledge gaps is your project going to cover?
  • Find a research question that gives you concrete search terms and combinations of search terms.
  • Remember that a research question can be changed, and it is normal to adjust your research question as you learn more about the subject. Often, you might have an idea or interest, and then you have to conduct a literature search, read, think, make notes, and acquire knowledge before the research question falls into place. The writing process can start in several ways, but it is a good idea to have a temporary research question or problem statement that you can work with from an early stage.

During a project: Adjust and be creative with search terms

  • Compare your results with central studies within the field. See what kind of sources, methods, and literature others have used, as this can help you with your own interpretations.
  • Can you find other terms, words, and combinations?

Finishing a project: Presenting your results, demonstrating sufficient quality

  • Are you aware of relevant research? What do your findings mean in this context?