Sage Publications

Conduct a Literature Review

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Sage Publications

Conduct a Literature Review

Sage Instructors

Instructor: Sage Instructors

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
7 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
No prior experience required
7 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Evaluate the purpose, main features, and key do’s and don’ts of an effective literature review

  • Develop and clarify your thinking, articulate your research question, and create a structured literature review plan

  • Identify, evaluate, and select appropriate scholarly literature, journals, and data to support a strong and convincing argument

  • Write and structure a clear, persuasive literature review, recognizing what each section requires and avoiding common pitfalls

Details to know

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Recently updated!

September 2026

Assessments

6 assignments

Taught in English

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There are 7 modules in this course

This module introduces the purpose and importance of the literature review within the research process. You will explore how literature reviews help position your research within an existing field of study, identify the key components of an effective review, and learn essential best practices for critically engaging with and presenting scholarly literature.

What's included

1 reading1 assignment1 plugin

This module introduces the key preparation stages of conducting a literature review. You will learn how to clarify and refine your thinking, develop a focused research question, and create a structured plan for your review, providing a strong foundation for engaging with and synthesizing relevant literature in your field.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores how to identify, evaluate, and work with scholarly sources to build a strong literature review. You will learn how to select high-quality journal articles, develop effective strategies for reading and understanding academic literature, and critically analyze key components of research publications to support and strengthen your own argument.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module explores the role of argument in writing an effective literature review. You will learn how to develop and present a clear, evidence-based argument, critically engage with existing research, and use relevant literature and data to build a coherent and persuasive case that supports your research focus.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module focuses on turning your ideas and evidence into a well-structured literature review. You will learn how to organize and present a clear academic argument, apply effective writing strategies, avoid common mistakes, and structure your literature review in a way that communicates your analysis clearly and persuasively.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

This module provides a practical guide to writing a literature review, covering the key sections typically required and what each should achieve. Through examples and guidance, you will learn how to structure, develop, and write a strong literature review that meets academic expectations and effectively supports your research project.

What's included

1 assignment1 plugin

In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.

What's included

1 plugin

Instructor

Sage Instructors
Sage Publications
91 Courses3,873 learners

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