The challenges of conducting literature reviews in research: Attempting to stand on the shoulders of giants

Post-graduate research has been paralleled to many familiar, but daunting activities including climbing a mountain, negotiating a maze or even eating an elephant or a whale. The common elements between these metaphors and research, is the difficulty of the task and the reward at its conclusion. This chapter introduces the challenges of conducting a literature review by addressing first, what a literature review actually is and its purpose. Further, the elements of preparation, organisation, persistence, patience, enthusiasm and communication are highlighted as essential elements to its success. In this chapter the common challenges of conducting a successful literature review are also reviewed. These include finding what is important; what is available and where; what the information means; how to keep track of it; and its reliability once gathered. In addition, tips are shared to make the review process more user friendly. As the chapter heading declares, by understanding the literature review and its process, we can truly stand on the shoulders of giants and subsequently enter the realm of published scholars.