For a majority of students enrolled at IGNOU The review of literature can be the most confusing portion of their work. This is especially the case in the case of an ignou MCOM project where academic depth is expected. However, guidance often isn't clear. Students usually ask if should write down their book chapters, make journal articles more readable, or simply collect quotes. The reality lies somewhere in between, and knowing that different perspectives can impact the overall quality of the project.
Literature reviews are not a report of the quantity of information you've read. It's written to demonstrate how well you understand the previous work that pertains to your topic and how your proposal fits within it. IGNOU evaluaters pay close attention to this chapter because it reflects your ability to link theory with research direction.

Understanding the Purpose of Review of Literature
Before composing anything, it is crucial to consider the reasons the chapter exists in an ignou MCOM project. The literature review serves three main functions.
In the first place, it indicates that the subject you picked has been extensively studied and has relevance to academic research. Second, it helps you identify any gaps or limitations from earlier research. Thirdly, it establishes an outline for your research goals and methods.
Many students treat this chapter as a formality, and copy content from earlier assignments or other online sources. The result is usually very low marks or projects being rejected. IGNOU is looking for original writing even when addressing existing research.
What IGNOU Expects in Literature Review
IGNOU does not expect students to write at the level of an PhD thesis. On the other hand explaining in the simplest way is as well discouraged. In an ignou project the literature review must reflect understanding at postgraduate level.
It is expected that you read research papers, books or reports, journals and sometimes even government publications related to your area of study. The primary focus should be on research which directly relate to your research field.
For instance, if the project is focusing on the financial performance of banks the literature review should concentrate on studies that have been conducted previously on financial ratios, financial performance, profitability analysis and risk assessment.
Selecting Relevant Literature Sources
A common error students make is deciding to use too many disparate sources. It is the quality that matters more than the quantity. In the case of an ignou MCOM project anywhere between fifteen and twenty reliable sources will suffice for a good selection.
Academic journals are a good option that are reputable, well-known books by famous the authors RBI books, public reports and even university research papers. Websites that don't have a clear authorship must be avoided.
Always go for the most recent research most likely from the past 10 years. Some older studies are acceptable but only if it is foundational in way.
Organizing the Review of Literature Chapter
A well organized chapter improves the readability and impact. Instead of writing unstructured summaries, split chapters of a literature analysis into logical sections.
You can organize the chapter using themes, period as well as the methodology or variables to be studied. For instance, one section may cover studies related profitability, while another could focus on liquidity, and another concerning operational efficiency.
This structure aids evaluators in understanding that you are not just copying content, but actually analyzing it.
Writing Style for IGNOU Literature Review
The style of writing should be straightforward but academic. Avoid overly complicated language and language. IGNOU prefers simplicity over clarity.
Each study that you talk about must contain the name of author, year of study, goals, methodology, as well as major findings. However, you shouldn't list them in a linear manner. It is best to connect one study with another.
For instance, when discussing one study, it is possible to explain how another author's work supported or disputed those findings. This method of comparison adds an additional dimension to your ignou mcom project.
Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes
The most common error is writing the literature review as a textbook chapter. Discussing fundamental concepts like the definition of accounting, or the meaning of management do not belong here unless directly linked to previous studies.
Another error is over-quoting. Your literature review should be written in one's own terms. Reading from the source shows understanding, and the copying of your review shows dependency.
Many students do not connect books to their own research field. Each study you discuss should have a clear connection the research goals.
Interlinking Literature Review with Research Gap
One of the major results of the review of literature is identifying the research gap. IGNOU assessment committees expect you demonstrate what researchers in the past did not realize or indicate areas where further research is needed.
After looking over several studies, you'll see that most studies centered on large organizations, while small firms were absent. Or that earlier studies used secondary data but primary data was scarce.
This void is the reason for your an ignou project. Without it, your project could seem repetitive.
Use of Citations and Referencing
When writing the review of literature, proper citation is essential. IGNOU generally accepts APA style, but consistent writing is more important than flawlessness.
All studies discussed must be included in the reference list at the conclusion of the project. The absence of references can raise doubts regarding authenticity.
Avoid footnotes when reviewing literature. Citations in text work better and is cleaner when used in an ignou MCOM project.
Length of Review of Literature Chapter
Students often ask how long the writing review must last. There is no set amount however, for an ignou MCOM project, the chapter generally runs between fifteen hundred to two thousand words.
The length should depend on your topic's complexity. A topic that is more extensive requires greater research, whereas a specific topic requires fewer but deeper discussions.
Writing lengthy reviews that are not needed without any analysis doesn't increase marks.
Example of Literature Review Writing Approach
Instead of writing like this
Author A has studied banking's performance and obtained good results
Write in this manner
Author A conducted research on the performance of banks using financial ratios. It concluded that profitability improved because of improved asset management. This conclusion was later affirmed by Author B who pointed out the role of the efficiency of operations in enhancing returns for banks.
This approach displays understanding and analysis, which is considered important in an IGNOU Project Report for MCOM MCOM project.
Maintaining Originality and Academic Integrity
IGNOU is a firm believer in plagiarism. Many projects are delayed or rejected due to the use of copied literature reviews. Even if you reference previous studies, the terminology is yours.
Make use of plagiarism checking tools whenever possible and rewrite content to make it sound natural. A sentence that is slightly imperfect will be more appealing than perfect copying.
Final Review Before Submission
Before you submit your ignou project, reread the review of literature carefully. Make sure that each study is relevant, whether the flow is rational and if your chapter will naturally lead to your research objectives.
Ask yourself one simple question. Does this article explain the reason why my research is important. If the answer is yes, then your research paper is right on path.
Closing Thoughts
Writing a literature review for an ignou MCOM project may initially be challenging particularly for students returning to school after a break. But once you understand that it is about analysis and connections rather than recitation, the challenge becomes easier to manage.
You should take the time to read, consider, and write in your own voice. Your effort is evident in the final work. It often determines the difference between an average submission and a high-quality one.