What is a literature review?
A literature review is a critical evaluation of the research on a particular topic. It is a synthesis of what the existing research on your topic says- your perspective guides how you put that existing research together- the purpose is to identify a gap in in the research in order to identify areas for future research and progress within the topic.
Check out this short video for a more visual explanation of what a literature review is:
These are links to various sources from around the web with information, strategies and tips for writing a literature review.
There are also two other short videos from the University of Maryland University College which give an introduction to both what a literature review is and isn't, and how to begin your writing process.