Why your literature review is overwhelming (and how NVivo can help)

For many researchers, the literature review is a particularly daunting phase of a project. As the PDFs pile up and your notes become scattered across hard-copy notebooks and Word documents, it’s easy to feel like you’re losing the "big picture."

Many researchers think of NVivo as just a tool for analysing the transcripts of interviews and related data. However, when used creatively, it can be a powerful tool for the analysis of literature (and other documentary evidence) in systematic, rigorous, and transparent ways.

The Need to Analyse, Not Just Manage Literature

Reference management tools like Zotero, Mendeley, Endnote, Citavi, and Refworks are great for managing your library of literature sources. However, they aren't designed for analysing the content of those literature files.

You might be tempted to use some of the new Generative-AI tools that claim to short-cut your literature review "from months to minutes." But there's no getting away from the need to read, think, and use your human critical judgement when reviewing literature.

Whatever the virtues of the different tools you choose to use, the literature review method is the starting point and the driving force of a rigorous and meaningful literature review.

Focusing on the Why, Not Just the How

Learning which buttons to click in NVivo is the easy part. The challenge is ensuring the software doesn't dictate your review strategy and that you can remain creative and in control. Whether you are doing a Systematic Literature Review, a Meta- or Scoping Review, or an in-depth critical review, it's important to ensure you use software tools to enact methods, not let the tools determine the method for you.

Our training is designed to be hands-on and tailored to your specific project goals. We move past "how-to" and focus on "how-to-do-it-robustly."

Understanding the Importance of a Literature Review

A literature review is not just a summary of existing research. It plays a crucial role in shaping your research question and methodology. By critically engaging with existing literature, you can identify gaps in knowledge and establish a strong foundation for your own research.

The Role of NVivo in Literature Analysis

NVivo can enhance your literature review process significantly. It allows you to code and categorise literature, making it easier to identify themes and patterns. This structured approach can lead to deeper insights and a more comprehensive understanding of your research topic.

Tips for Effective Literature Review Management

1. Organise Your Sources: Create a clear system for managing your literature. Use folders and tags to categorise your sources based on themes or topics.

   
   

2. Take Detailed Notes: As you read, jot down key points, quotes, and your reflections. This will help you synthesise information later.

   
   

3. Regularly Review Your Notes: Set aside time to revisit your notes and sources. This will keep your understanding fresh and help you identify connections between different pieces of literature.

   
   

4. Engage with the Material: Don’t just read passively. Ask questions and challenge the arguments presented in the literature. This critical engagement will enrich your review.

   
   

Ready to Take Control of Your Literature Review?

Join Christina Silver and Sarah L. Bulloch to learn how to get the most out of NVivo for your literature review during our course designed for postgraduate students and early career researchers.

Workshop Details:

• Courses: Effectively Manage Your Literature Review Using NVivo

• When: Various workshops throughout the year - see link above

• Format: Online (Live and Hands-on)

• Who it’s for: Researchers at any stage—no prior NVivo knowledge required.

  
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, a literature review is an essential part of the research process. It requires careful analysis and critical thinking. By using NVivo effectively, you can streamline your literature review and gain valuable insights. Remember, the goal is not just to manage literature but to analyse it meaningfully. Embrace the process, and you will find that your literature review can be a powerful tool in your research journey.