Introduction

A well-structured literature review is crucial for any dissertation, as it provides a comprehensive overview of existing research relevant to your topic. Proper formatting not only enhances readability but also demonstrates your adherence to academic standards. Below are three diverse examples highlighting effective dissertation literature review formatting.

Example 1: APA Style Literature Review

In the field of psychology, the APA (American Psychological Association) style is widely used for formatting literature reviews. This style emphasizes clarity and conciseness while maintaining a professional tone.

In this example, the literature review focuses on the impact of social media on adolescent mental health.

The literature review begins with an introduction that outlines the importance of the topic, followed by thematic sections, each discussing various studies and their findings. Citations are formatted according to APA guidelines, ensuring that all sources are properly credited.

The review highlights key studies, such as:

• Smith et al. (2020) found a correlation between excessive social media use and increased anxiety levels among adolescents.
• Johnson (2019) demonstrated that positive social media interactions can enhance self-esteem.
• Lee & Thompson (2021) conducted a meta-analysis revealing mixed results on the overall impact of social media on mental health.

Notes:

• Ensure that all references are included in the reference list at the end, formatted according to APA style.
• Maintain a clear and logical flow between sections to enhance coherence.

Example 2: MLA Style Literature Review

The MLA (Modern Language Association) style is commonly utilized in the humanities. This style is particularly focused on the textual analysis of literature and cultural studies.

Consider a dissertation exploring the representation of women in 19th-century literature. In this literature review, the author organizes the discussion around key themes such as social roles, character development, and authorial intent.

Key sections might include:

• An examination of the works of Jane Austen and their critique of societal norms.
• A discussion of the portrayal of female characters in Charles Dickens’ novels.
• Analysis of feminist literary criticism applied to the period’s literature.

Each section integrates quotations from primary texts and secondary sources, formatted with in-text citations according to MLA guidelines.

Notes:

• Be sure to include a Works Cited page at the end of the review, listing all sources in MLA format.
• Consider the use of subheadings for each thematic section to improve clarity.

Example 3: Chicago Manual of Style Literature Review

The Chicago Manual of Style is often used in history and some social sciences disciplines. This style allows for flexibility in citation methods, including footnotes or endnotes.

For a dissertation focused on the economic impacts of the Industrial Revolution, the literature review can be structured chronologically or thematically. In this case, a thematic approach is employed to discuss different economic theories and their implications.

Sections might include:

• Analysis of Adam Smith’s theories on free market economics.
• A review of Karl Marx’s critique of capitalism and its social impacts.
• Discussion on modern interpretations of these theories in light of current economic conditions.

Footnotes provide additional context and source information, allowing readers to delve deeper into specific points.

Notes:

• Include a bibliography at the end of the literature review, formatted according to Chicago style.
• Consider the target audience when choosing between footnotes and endnotes for citations.

By following these examples, you can create a well-structured and formatted literature review that meets academic standards and enhances the quality of your dissertation.