For many students who are enrolled in IGNOU review, reviewing literature can be the most elusive component of their project. This is particularly true for those working on an ignou mcom assignment, where academic rigor is expected. However, guidance usually appears to be limited. Students usually inquire if they have to write a summary of books, write journal articles in a different way, or simply take notes of quotations. The truth lies somewhere between, and knowing that a difference could affect the quality of the entire project.
A literature review is not a document that demonstrates how much content you've read. It is written to show how well you comprehend current work in relation to the topic you're researching and how your idea fits in with it. IGNOU evaluators look closely at this chapter, as it illustrates your ability to connect concepts with research direction.
Understanding the Purpose of Review of Literature
Before you begin writing any article, it is crucial to consider the reasons the section exists in an ignou mcom project. Literature review serves three main goals.
First, it shows that the subject you have chosen was studied before in the academic world and is relevant to research. Second, it aids you identify any gaps or limitations from earlier studies. Thirdly it helps you establish an understanding of studies' goals and research methodology.
Many students treat this chapter as a formality, and duplicate content from previous assignments or other online sources. This can result in negative marks or project rejection. IGNOU does not require original writing in discussions of studies already completed.
What IGNOU Expects in Literature Review
IGNOU does not expect students to write at the level of the PhD thesis. But any explanation that is not basic is too much to be avoided. In the case of an ignou mcom assignment the literature review should reflect a postgraduate level of understanding.
You're required to read books, research papers journals, reports and sometimes government publications related to your research area. The study should focus on topics that directly link to the research area you are studying.
For example, if your project is on financial performance of banks the literature review should focus on prior research in relation to financial ratios banking performance, profitability analysis, and risk evaluation.
Selecting Relevant Literature Sources
A common error students make is deciding to use too many disparate sources. Quantity is not as important as quality. For a project in ignou about fifteen to twenty strong sources are usually enough If they're chosen with care.
A good source is academic journals reliable books from well-known author, RBI newspapers, report from government agencies, and even university research papers. Websites that do not have clear authorship requirements should be avoided.
Always prefer recent studies most likely from the past 10 years. Other studies from the past may be considered in the event that they are fundamental in way.
Organizing the Review of Literature Chapter
A well-organized chapter can improve understanding and perception. Instead of composing random summaries of the work, break down sections of the review in sensible sections.
You may organize the chapter by themes, time period as well as the methodology or variables to be studied. For instance, one chapter may cover studies related the profitability of a business, while another section may concentrate on liquidity and another focus on efficiency in operations.
This structure aids in understanding that you are not just copying content, but you are analyzing it.
Writing Style for IGNOU Literature Review
The writing style is to be professional but easy. Avoid excessive language and use of jargon. IGNOU Project MCOM insists on simplicity over clarity.
Each study you present should be listed with the author's name, year of study, objectives, the methodology used, and the main findings. However, you shouldn't list them in a linear manner. It is best to connect one study with the other.
For instance, when discussing an article, you can explain how another author's work supported or contradicted those findings. This method of comparison adds richness to your ignou project.
Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes
A common error is to write the literature review as an academic chapter. Basic concepts such as definition of accounting or meaning of management is not appropriate here unless directly linked to studies that have been done previously.
Another error is over-quoting. Your literature review should be written in one's own terms. It is a sign of understanding that you are paraphrasing, while copying indicates dependence.
Students often fail to connect books to their own research focus. Each study you discuss should have a clear link to your project objectives.
Establishing a linkage Literature Review with Research Gap
One of the most important outcomes of reviewing the literature is to identify the gap in research. IGNOU examiners expect you be able to demonstrate what prior researchers missed or indicate areas where further research is required.
After having discussed a myriad of studies you'll find that a lot of studies focus on large organisations while smaller companies were disregarded. Some studies have used secondary data but primary data was limited.
This gap serves as the rationale for your projects ignou.com. Without this, your project could seem repetitive.
Use of Citations and Referencing
While writing the review of literature, proper citation is essential. IGNOU generally supports APA style, however consistency is more important than perfect.
Each study covered must appear in the list of references at the end of the study. Missing references create doubts about authenticity.
Avoid footnotes on literature reviews. The in-text citation is better and appears better in an ignou MCOM project.
Length of Review of Literature Chapter
Students frequently ask what the length of the book review needs to run. There's no standard rule but for an to do an MCOM project the chapter typically spans from fifteen hundred at to two thousand.
The length of the discussion should be based on topic complexity. A broad topic will require more studies, while a concentrated topic will require less but more in-depth discussions.
The need to write lengthy reviews that do not include analysis will not help improve marks.
Example of Literature Review Writing Approach
Instead of writing as this
Author A looked into bank performance and discovered good results
Write it like this
In the year A, Author B carried out a study on bank performance by using financial ratios. The study concluded that profitability improved due to better asset management. This finding was later supported by Author B who stressed the role played by operational efficiency when it comes to improving the bank's returns.
This approach displays understanding and analysis, which is highly valued in an MCOM project.
Maintaining Originality and Academic Integrity
IGNOU is a firm believer in plagiarism. Many projects get stopped or rejected because of published literature reviews that have been copied. Although you may refer to previous studies, the language is yours.
Check for plagiarism using tools if possible. Then, rewrite the content until it sounds natural. A sentence that is slightly flawed will be more appealing than perfect copying.
Final Review Before Submission
Prior to submitting your ignou mcom project, make sure you read the review of literature carefully. Check whether each study is relevant, whether your flow follows logically and whether the chapter is logically linked to your research objectives.
Ask yourself one simple question. Does this chapter provide a reason why my research is necessary. If the answer is yes, then your review on literature will be in the best track.
Closing Thoughts
Writing a literature review for an ignou MCOM project can be a challenge at first especially for students returning to school after a break. When you realize it's more about connecting and analysis than memorization, the task can be accomplished.
Take time to read, think, and write with your own voice. The effort you put into it will show clearly in the final work. It frequently makes the difference between your average work and a high-quality one.