Dear Kubai,

I would say that some of the challenges are:

Dear Kubai,

I would say that some of the challenges are:

1. Non-availability of free literature

2. Lack of money and means to pay for available paid literature

3. Inability to search literature

4. Inability to synthesise what is in literature

I think that all of the answer above are great and underline important aspect. I would add that many novices in research neglect the importance of a literature review as one of the legitimate steps of the scientific method. Often, I find that a maximum of effort is deployed by novices to identify the literature that confirms their a priori and miss the opportunity to explore and consider theoretical framework or data that do not fit in their biais that could enhance their methodology or their assumptions. A review well done will strengthen the objectivity of their approach by forcing them to clarify their a priori and justify their choice in relation to what is done in their docmaine. It's not a waste of time but I have the impression that it's often seen as such.

Completely in agreement with everyone.

I also think that many times they need a mentor or tutor to teach them and give them key points in this important section of the investigation. Once the subject is defined, with its hypothesis and objectives, the next step is the search for literature, the revision of the topic itself. For many it is usually somewhat laborious and strenuous, but it is indispensable as part of the scientific method.

I'd like to say that all of the answers raise very good points about beginning not only a literature review,but also the ground work for research.

I would freely admit that I am not a great or even good researcher,and that many of the lessons I've learnt were learned the hard way,by expending way too much effort on things that were neither important or in some cases,relevant to,the work being undertaken.

Guidance,advice,and focus are key to beginning any project,and implicit in that,defining the scope and goals of the research.

The point about access to,and ability to in some cases,pay for that access,are also important in today's cash strapped services.

Literature review can be strenuous,but in my own experience,can teach you an enormous amount about the topic,and save you revisiting areas that have already been researched.

I would like give a possible solution for some of the challenges pointed out above. I believe that a good course work reduce these challenges facing students in building literature review. Teaching relevant advance and up to date courses to students make the literature review much easy.