1. Three grades of literature review Grade C Grade B Grade A

2. A Grade C literature review is little more than a list of papers For example, the candidate writes: ‘Several authors used genetic algorithms for system optimisation (Brown 2001; Jones 1995; Smith 1992) …’

3. A Grade C literature review is superficial There is no evidence that the candidate has understood, or even read, any of the papers.

4. A Grade C literature review can mislead your readers For example, if you have cited a paper, your examiners will presume you are familiar with it.

5. A Grade B literature review describes, explains and comments on an author’s work For example, the candidate writes: ‘Smith (1998) demonstrated that cross- linked genetic algorithms provide an effective tool for the design of water distribution networks …’

6. A Grade B literature review This type of review demonstrates that the candidate has read, and probably understood, the work.

7. A Grade A literature review produces new knowledge by bringing together results from a number of different sources For example, the candidate writes: ‘The test results obtained by Brown (2001), Jones (2002) and Smith (1994) summarised in Figure 7.16, demonstrate a consistent bias in the window sampling system …’

8. A Grade A literature review This type of review demonstrates the candidate’s deep understanding of the topic.