Step 1. Clarify topic & search for relevant literature: Use keywords, synonyms, related terms, etc. from a variety of databases
Step 2. Evaluate & select sources: Ensure credibility, relevance to question, use of established frameworks or innovate approaches, whether to include recent or longer-term literature. Takes notes /annotations as you go.
Step 3. Identify themes, debates and gaps: Trends / patterns (in theory, method or results), recurring concepts or questions, debates, conflicts & contradictions, influential theories or studies that changed direction of field, gaps missing from literature.
Step 4. Outline the structure: Can either combine several strategies (e.g. overall thematic, but discussed chronologically)
Step 5. Write your literature review: Include intro, main body and conclusion. Should include critical evaluation of sources, and own interpretation and significance of findings in relation to literature as a whole.
Chronological: Simplest approach is to trace development of topic over time (need caution to avoid simply listing and summarising sources in order). Try to analyse patterns, turning points and key debates that have shaped the field. Give interpretation of how and why certain developments occurred.
Thematic: if recurring central themes identified, review can be organised into subsections that address different aspects of the topic.
Methodological: If sources are from different disciplines or fields that use a variety of research methods, compare results and conclusions that emerge from difference approaches. E.g. qualitative vs quantitative research, approach by empirical vs theoretical scholarship, sociological vs historical vs cultural sources.
Theoretical: Lit review is often foundation of theoretical framework. You can use it to discuss various theories, models and definitions of key concepts. May argue for the relevance of a specific theoretical approach, or combine various theoretical concepts to create a framework for your research.