For many students in IGNOU reviewing literature can be the most confusing portion of their work. This is especially the case for those who are working on an ignou-mcom project where academic rigor is expected, yet guidance frequently seems to be a little sluggish. Students typically ask if they must summarize books, modify journal articles, or simply collect quotes. In reality, there is a place between, and knowing that differences can affect the quality of the entire project.
A literature review is not intended to demonstrate the amount of material you've read. It's written to demonstrate how much you comprehend available research on your area of study and how your project fits in. IGNOU examiners are particularly interested in this chapter, as it illustrates your ability to link concepts with research direction.
Understanding the Purpose of Review of Literature
Before composing anything, it is crucial to comprehend why the section exists in an ignou mcom project. Literature reviews serve three essential functions.
First, it demonstrates it is clear that the topic you've chosen already has been explored and has academic significance. Second, it helps you find gaps or weaknesses in prior research. Thirdly, it serves as the foundation for your research objectives and your methodology.
A lot of students view this chapter as a formality and copy content from their previous projects or sources on the internet. This can result in low marks or project rejection. IGNOU insists on original writing, even in discussions of studies already completed.
What IGNOU Expects in Literature Review
IGNOU doesn't expect students to write at the level of an PhD thesis. However the use of very basic explanations is too much to be avoided. In an ignou project, the review of literature should reflect postgraduate knowledge.
You'll be expected to read research papers, books journals, reports and sometimes even government publications related to your field of study. The focus should be on studies which are directly related to the area of your study.
In the case of example, if your project is on financial performance of banks, then your literature review should concentrate on studies that have been conducted previously in relation to financial ratios profitability analysis, banking performance, and risk evaluation.
Selecting Relevant Literature Sources
One of the most common mistakes students make is picking too many unrelated sources. The quality of the information is more important than the quantity. For an ignou mcom project between 15 and 20 powerful sources are generally enough for a good selection.
Good sources include academic journals popular books written by well-known names, RBI books, public reports and even university research papers. Websites with unclear authorship should be avoided.

Always look for studies that are more recent and ideally, from the last ten years. These older studies may be included only if the studies are fundamental in nature.
Organizing the Review of Literature Chapter
A well-organized chapter can improve comprehension and makes a good impression. Instead of composing random summaries, you can divide all the reviews of books into sensible sections.
You can organize the chapter by themes, time period, methodology, or variables investigated. For instance, one section may focus on research studies related to profit, while another could concentrate upon liquidity, while another regarding operational efficiency.
This structure makes it easier for evaluators to see that you're more than just copying content. You are actually studying it.
Writing Style for IGNOU Literature Review
The style of writing is to be professional but easy. Avoid a heavy use of language or unnecessary words. IGNOU seeks simplicity above all else.
Each research study you write about should include the author name, year of study, objective, methodology, and significant findings. It is not necessary to list them in a linear manner. Try to connect one study with a different one.
For example, after discussing the findings of one study, you could refer to how an author's findings were supported the results or countered them. The comparative approach adds more depth to your ignou MCOM project.
Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes
One frequent error is writing the literature review in the form of the kind of chapter in a textbook. In explaining the basics of concepts like definition of accounting or the significance of management does not belong in this article unless they are directly linked to other studies.
Another mistake is excessive quoting. Your review of literature should be written by you in Your own voice. The use of paraphrasing indicates understanding, whereas copying demonstrates dependency.
Students may also not link the literature to their research study. Each study you reference should have a clear connection the goals of your project.
Interlinking Literature Review with Research Gap
One of the most important results of the examination of literature is to identify the gap in research. IGNOU assessors require you to identify what earlier researchers didn't know or where further study is needed.
After looking over several studies, you will notice that the majority of studies focus on large organisations smaller firms were ignored. Also, earlier studies employed secondary data, but primary data were not sufficient.
This is why it's the main reason for your project in the ignou mcom. Without it, your project could appear to be repetitive.
Use of Citations and Referencing
In writing a review of literature It is vital to have a correct citation. IGNOU generally follows APA style, however it is more about consistency than perfection.
All studies discussed must be included in the list of references at the end of the project. Missing references create doubts about authenticity.
Avoid footnotes for literature review. A citation in text works better and is more professional in an IGNOU Project MCOM (http://L.V.Eli.NE.S.Swxzu@Hu.Feng.Ku.Angn..Ub..Xn--.Xn--.U.K37@Www.Mandolinman.it) MCOM project.
Length of Review of Literature Chapter
Students often ask how long the review of literature must run. There is no set amount, but for an ignou assignment in mcom, this chapter typically ranges from fifteen hundred or two thousand words.
The length of the discussion should be based on what the topic's difficulty. A broader topic requires more research while a narrowly focused subject requires less but more in-depth discussions.
A review that is too long and without analysis does not improve marks.
Example of Literature Review Writing Approach
Instead of writing this way,
Author A conducted a study of the bank's performance, and found positive results
Create this type of writing
Author A conducted research on banking performance by using financial ratios. The study concluded that profitability improved due to better asset management. This was later validated by Author B He emphasized the role played by operational efficiency in boosting bank profits.
This approach displays understanding and analysis, which is essential to an MCOM project.
Maintaining Originality and Academic Integrity
IGNOU takes plagiarism very seriously. Many projects are refused or delayed because of copy-pasted literature reviews. However, even if you use prior studies, the language ought to be uniquely yours.
Use plagiarism detection tools if possible. You can also rewrite your content until it sounds natural. A sentence that is slightly imperfect is far better than perfect copied.
Final Review Before Submission
Before submitting your ignou-mcom project, reread the literature review carefully. Be sure to check if each study is relevant, whether the flow is consistent, and whether the chapters flow naturally to your research goals.
Ask yourself one simple question. Does this chapter help explain the reason for why I need to study it. If the answer is yes then your research paper is right on path.
Closing Thoughts
Writing a literature review as part of an ignou master's thesis is not easy at first, especially for students returning to academics following a gap. When you understand that it is about connection and analysis, rather than memorization of information, the task is a lot easier.
Spend time reading, consider, and write in your unique voice. Your effort is evident in the final project and often makes the difference between one that is average and a solid one.
