Guide on Crafting a Successful Literary Research Paper

A literature research paper is a comprehensive survey and analysis of existing scholarly literature on a specific topic or issue within the field of literature. Here's a guide to help you write a successful one.

Choosing a Topic

Choosing a specific and researchable topic is essential for a successful literature research paper. The topic should be focused and relevant to the field of literature, allowing for a thorough investigation and analysis of the existing scholarly works.

Thorough Research

Thorough research is the foundation of a literature research paper. Conduct research using reputable academic databases and university library resources to ensure the reliability and relevance of the sources used.

Taking Detailed Notes

As research is conducted, detailed notes should be taken to aid in the organization and analysis of the sources. Critically evaluate each source to determine its relevance and significance to the topic at hand.

Creating a Well-Organized Paper

A well-organized outline is essential for organizing research and ensuring that the paper follows a logical structure. Structure the literature review logically by organizing sources thematically.

The Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is the central argument or claim of a research paper and should be specific, arguable, and based on the research conducted. The thesis statement should be clearly stated and should guide the entire paper.

Proper Citation

Proper citation is crucial in any research paper to give credit to the original authors of the works used in the research. Ensure that all sources are correctly cited, and the bibliography or works cited page is formatted correctly.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Watch out for a lack of a clear thesis, over-reliance on summarizing sources, a disorganized literature review, and failure to cite sources properly. These mistakes can weaken the overall argument and clarity of the paper.

Checking for Clarity

Ensure that each section of the literature research paper is logically presented. Check for clarity, coherence, and cohesion throughout the paper to ensure that the reader can easily follow the argument and understand the significance of the literature reviewed.

Checking for Grammar and Spelling Errors

Use grammar-checking tools and carefully proofread the paper for typos, punctuation mistakes, and sentence structure issues. Check for errors in the citation and formatting of the bibliography or works cited page.

Writing the Paper

Write the paper in a clear and concise manner, presenting a well-supported discussion of the significance of the literature reviewed, identifying gaps in existing research, and suggesting areas for further exploration.

Length of the Paper

The length of the literature research paper will depend on assignment requirements or course guidelines, with most literature research papers ranging from 5 to 20 pages.

Seeking Feedback

Have a peer, mentor, or tutor read the paper and provide constructive feedback. This feedback can help improve the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of the paper.

Overcoming Writer's Block

If experiencing writer's block, take a break, return to research, or try freewriting. These techniques can help stimulate creativity and get the writing process started.

Including Primary Sources

While a literature research paper primarily focuses on secondary sources, primary sources (e.g., novels, plays, poems) can be included if they are relevant to the topic.

Examining and Critically Assessing Previous Research

The objective of a literature research paper is to examine and critically assess previous research or interpretations, present a clear and concise argument or thesis statement, provide a well-supported discussion of the significance of the literature reviewed, identify gaps in existing research, and suggest areas for further exploration.