In developing the background of the study (review of related literature and studies), begin with a brief introduction, followed with a thorough discussion of the literature. avoid exhausive historical review. This is intended to limit the number of references to be included in the study to the relevant ones.
The review is developmental in nature arranged by topic headings. Topics discussed observe coherence and continuity in the flow of ideas. Cross-referencing is recommended, which means that the writer or the researcher compared and contrasts the thrust of the current work to the previous studies done and recognizes the precedence of the work of others.
in summerizing earlier studies, include only and give emphasis on pertinent findings, relevant methods and major conclusions. Avoid nonessential details.
Reviewed literatures are classified as local literature (if printed in the Philippines), Foreign Literatures (if Printed in other countries) and online sources or Websites. Revised related studies are focused on the findings of unpublished thesis and Dissertations.
As Cited in the Research manual (American Psychological Association (APA) editorial style for Thesis writing) prepared by the research and Publication Center of saintPaul University - Quezon City (SPUS Research Manual, 2004), likeeverything else, too much of a good thing ruins the experience and that the basic rule of thumb in writing literature reviews is to keep them long enough to cover the area, but short enough to remain interesting. Omitting relevant literature is a problem, likewise, as an overdone literature review.
Relevant controversial issues should be treated with fairness. Any researcher must not be biased in supporting the findings and conclusions of related studies. Its is worth nothing that not all sources of information and materials visited and read are to be included in the review of literature.
In presenting the review of related literature and studies, the least - related references are discussed first, and the most related are discussed last. This part comprises of at least 6 -15 relevant related literature and studies done in about 2 -3 pages and, properly sequenced in support of the purpose of the study.
