For many students enrolled in IGNOU reviews of studies can be the most challenging component of their project. This is especially the case for students working on IGNOU's MCOM IGNOU solved project (look here) projects, where academic depth is expected, however guidance often can be difficult to find. Students generally ask whether they must write summaries of books, refret journal articles or simply take notes of quotations. The truth lies somewhere between, and understanding this distinction can alter the quality of the entire project.
A literature review is not a document that demonstrates the quantity of information you've read. It's written to demonstrate how well you comprehend literature that is relevant to the topic you're studying and how your project is a part of it. IGNOU assessors scrutinize this chapter since it showcases your ability to link theoretical concepts to research direction.
Understanding the Purpose of Review of Literature
Before composing anything, it important to be aware of the reason this chapter is essential to an ignou MCOM project. The literature review serves three major purposes.
In the first place, it indicates that the subject matter you've chosen is one that has been studied in the past and has academic significance. The second is that it assists you to identify gaps or limitations in earlier research. Thirdly, it establishes an overview of your research goals and your methodology.
Most students view this section as a formality and copy content from earlier projects or from online sources. This is a common practice that results in the project being rejected or not getting marks. IGNOU demands original writing even when discussing studies that are already in progress.
What IGNOU Expects in Literature Review
IGNOU does not require students to write on the scale of the PhD thesis. At the same time it is recommended that students write in a simple way. too much to be avoided. In the case of an ignou mcom assignment the literature review should reflect postgraduate-level understanding.
You will be required to read books, research papers journals, reports or even publications from the government that relate to your area of study. The focus should be on studies which directly relate to your research area.
In the case of example, if your project focuses on the performance of financials of banks Your literature review should include earlier studies in relation to financial ratios profitability analysis, banking performance, and risk assessment.
Selecting Relevant Literature Sources
A common mistake that students make is deciding to use too many disparate sources. The quality of the information is more important than the quantity. For an ignou-mcom project between 15 and 20 solid sources are typically enough if they are well chosen.
An excellent source of information is academic journals that are reputable, well-known books by famous creators, RBI books, public reports and university research papers. Websites that do not have clear authorship requirements should be avoided.
It is always best to choose recent studies most likely from the past ten years. It is possible to include older studies in the event that they are fundamental in nature.
Organizing the Review of Literature Chapter
A well organized chapter improves readability and impression. Instead of writing random summaries of the work, break down the literature review into clear sections.
The chapter could be structured according to themes, time period and methodology or even variables studied. For instance, one section may cover studies related the profitability of a business, while another section may concentrate on liquidity, while another regarding operational efficiency.
This structure makes it easier for evaluators to see that you're not copying content, but actually analyzing it.
Writing Style for IGNOU Literature Review
The style of writing should be simple and academic. Avoid overly complicated language and jargon. IGNOU is a firm believer in simplicity over clarity.
Every study you review should include the name of its author, year of study, objective, methodology, as well as significant findings. Be careful not to list them in a logical manner. You should try to link one study to another.
For instance, after discussing your findings from one study, highlight how another author's study supported or disputed those findings. This comparative approach adds the depth of your ignou project.
Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes
A common error is writing the literature review like the textbook chapter. Explaining basic concepts such as how accounting works or the meaning of management does not belong in this article unless they are directly linked to previous studies.
Another mistake is to use too many quotes. Your literature review should be written in you own language. Paraphrasing shows understanding, while copying indicates dependence.
Students may also not link studies to their own research focus. Each study you reference should have a clear connection your objectives for your project.
Connecting Literature Review with Research Gap
One of the major outcomes of reviewing the literature is to identify the research gap. IGNOU evaluations expect you to clarify what research earlier researchers did not or the areas where more study is needed.
After discussing multiple studies, it's possible that studies centered on large organizations in contrast to small businesses being unaddressed. The earlier studies also used secondary data, while primary data was not as extensive.
The gap in the picture is the reason for your project ignou mcom. Without it, your work will appear to be repetitive.
Use of Citations and Referencing
While writing a review for literature It is vital to have a correct citation. IGNOU generally supports APA style, but quality is more important than consistency.
Every study to be discussed must be included in the reference list at the conclusion of the project. A lack of references may raise doubts as to the study's authenticity.
Don't use footnotes to review literature. In-text citations are more efficient as it appears cleaner in an ignou MCOM project.
Length of Review of Literature Chapter
Students often ask how long their literature reviews should run. There's no definitive rule in the case of an ignou mcom project, this chapter usually spans from fifteen cents or two thousand words.
The length should be determined by the complexity of the topic. The more expansive topic requires more research. A specific topic requires fewer but deeper discussions.
Writing lengthy reviews that are not needed without an analysis won't help marks.
Example of Literature Review Writing Approach
Instead of writing as this
Author A looked into banking's performance and obtained good results
Write it like this
Write as this: Author A performed a study examining bank performance using financial ratios and found that profitability improved due to improved asset management. This finding was later supported by Author B, who emphasized the role of operation efficiency in improving the bank's returns.
This type of approach shows an understanding and analysis that is considered important in an ignou mcom project.
Maintaining Originality and Academic Integrity
IGNOU takes plagiarism very seriously. Many projects get denied or delayed because of plagiarism in literature reviews. Even if you cite earlier studies, the language is yours.
Use plagiarism checking tools as possible. If you are able, modify your content to make it sound natural. A slightly imperfect sentence is superior to copied perfection.
Final Review Before Submission
Before submitting your ignou-mcom task, revisit the review carefully. Be sure to check if each study is relevant, if it flows in a logical manner and if it is linked naturally to your research objectives.
Ask yourself one simple question. Does this chapter provide a reason the reasons why my study is required. If the answer is yes, then that literature study is in the right track.
Closing Thoughts
Reviewing literature for a ignou mcom project isn't easy at first particularly for those returning to academics after a gap. But once you understand that it is about analysis and connection rather than recitation, the challenge is easy to handle.
Do your best to read, consider, and write in your own voice. This is reflected in the final work. It can make the difference between an average submission and a powerful one.