Writing in CSD

What is a Lit Review?As the first step in the research process, the

literature review provides an organized review of the main ideas, theories, and findings related to a topic.

Unlike a research study or an essay, a lit review does not seek to prove anything or support the writer’s stand.

Organize by characteristicsEmpirical researchCase studiesSurvey resultsInformational sourcesSub-topic

Example of a review organized by sub-topic

Major Topic: Therapies used in treatment of stuttering

Self-modelingProlonged speechHabit reversal

Lit Review Introduction (1-2 para.)Provide background information on general

topicOrient reader to overall significance of topicIndicate focus/significance of the present

reviewPreview the types of information discussed in

the body of the review

Lit Review Body Provide details from each source (empirical research: IMRaD)

(other sources: important ideas, theories, etc.)

Synthesize the information: point out differences and similarities in theories, methodologies, findings, etc.

Use transitions and consistent verb tense.

Lit Review ConclusionSummarize the most important results and

ideas in the sources as a wholeIdentify major trends in the research and

consensus among the authorsDescribe practical applications of the

informationIdentify areas for future study

Using APA formatIn-text Citations

General RulesUse the author’s (or authors’) surname(s) and

the year the information was published: Rogers (1994). . . . (Rogers, 1994). In 1994, Rogers. . . .

One date per source per paragraph

One or two authors: Cite name(s) every time you cite the source.

Rogers (1994) or (Rogers, 1994) Rogers and Johnston (1994) or (Rogers & Johnston, 1994)

Three, four, or five authors: First citation in paper: List all names Rogers, Johnston, and Smith

(1997) (Rogers, Johnston, & Smith, 1997)

Second and subsequent citations: Rogers et al. (1997) (Rogers et al., 1997)

Six or more authors: Use the et al. abbreviation for all citations:

Smith et al. (2001) (Smith et al., 2001)

Group citationsAlphabetize the sources by the first author’s

surnameSeparate sources with a semi-colon

(Adams, 2002; Davis & Caldwell, 1998; Johnston, Smith, & Alexander, 2000; Smith

& Johnston, 2003; Zeigler et al., 1996)

ReferencesList all sources cited in the review.Alphabetize the sources and format records

as in the bibliography