How long should a literature review be in a 12,000 word dissertation

How Long Should a Literature Review Be?

Direct Answer: The Ideal Length for a Literature Review

When it comes to determining the length of a literature review, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

The ideal length depends on various factors, including the discipline, purpose, and scope of the review. However, here are some general guidelines:

• For undergraduate students: 2-5 pages (approximately 500-1,200 words)
• For master’s students: 5-10 pages (approximately 1,200-2,500 words)
• For Ph.D.

  students: 10-20 pages (approximately 2,500-5,000 words)

Why is it Important to Determine the Ideal Length?

A well-structured literature review is essential to:

• Identify key studies and findings in a particular area
• Synthesize and integrate existing knowledge
• Highlight gaps and areas for further research
• Establish the researcher’s research agenda and goals

Key Considerations in Determining the Ideal Length

Before diving into the ideal length, consider the following factors:

• Purpose: What is the primary purpose of the literature review?

  Is it to provid

  how many words should your literature review be
  how long should my ap research lit review be