ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses some of the circumstances in which conducting a literature review can be useful, including both practice-based and academic situations. It focuses on the development of the review's question, aims and objectives. The book outlines the process of conducting a search for evidence that will address the review's question and aims, including the development of a search strategy, and the practicalities of carrying out a search. It also discusses the general principles of appraising research, before entering into an exploration of the particulars of appraising qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods research. The book also focuses on narrative approaches to the synthesis of evidence from sources that are heterogeneous, and potentially include both research and non-research evidence. It concludes with a troubleshooting guide that addresses problems that are commonly encountered in carrying out a literature review.
