In the case of many students at IGNOU studying literature can be the most complicated part of the project work. This is particularly true for students working on an ignou mcom assignment, where academic depth is expected. However, guidance usually feels limited. Students often ask if they should write down their book chapters, modify journal articles, or simply gather quotes. The reality is somewhere between, and knowing that the difference can impact the quality of the entire project.
Literature reviews are NOT written to illustrate how much of the literature you've read. It's written to demonstrate how well you comprehend the works that are currently being done on your field and how your project is a part of it. IGNOU reviewers are attentive to this chapter due to your ability to connect the research directions with your theory.
Understanding the Purpose of Review of Literature
Before completing any work, it is essential to know why the section exists in an ignou MCOM project. The review of literature serves three primary functions.
First, it shows that the subject you have chosen already has been explored and is of academic importance. In addition, it allows you to discover gaps or issues in prior research. Third, it provides an understanding of studies' goals and research methodology.
Many students take this chapter as a formality, and duplicate content from previous assignments or other online sources. This approach usually results in the project being rejected or not getting marks. IGNOU does not require original writing when discussing the results of existing studies.
What IGNOU Expects in Literature Review
IGNOU doesn't expect students to write on the scale of an PhD thesis. While doing so the use of very basic explanations is prohibited. For an ignou mcom project the literature review will reflect understanding that is postgraduate.
The expectation is to look over research papers, books, journals, reports, and occasionally, government publications that relate to your subject. The concentrate should be on studies relevant to the research area you are studying.
In the case of example, if your project is focusing on the financial performance of banks Then your literature review should focus on prior research about financial ratios banking performance, profitability analysis and risk assessment.
Selecting Relevant Literature Sources
One common mistake students make is to select too many irrelevant sources. It is the quality that matters more than the quantity. For an ignou-mcom project in the range of 15 to 20 solid sources are typically enough when they're well-chosen.
These are good sources for academic journals highly regarded books by well-known writers, RBI newspapers, report from government agencies, as well as university research papers. Websites with unclear authorship should be avoided.
Always prefer recent studies that are from the last 10 years. Studies from the past can be considered only if they are fundamental in the nature.
Organizing the Review of Literature Chapter
A well-organized chapter can improve readability and impression. Instead of composing random summaries of the work, break down the literature review into logical sections.
The chapter can be organized by themes, time period research methodology, or other variables examined. For example, one section might focus on studies that relate to profitability, another may focus on liquidity, and yet another on operational efficiency.
The structure can aid evaluators in understanding that you're more than just taking content and copying it, but also analyzing it.
Writing Style for IGNOU Literature Review
The style of writing must be formal but not abrasive. Avoid overly complicated language and jargon. IGNOU prefers simplicity over clarity.
Each study you discuss should include the author's name, year of study, objective, methodology, as well as major findings. Don't mention them in a logical manner. Make sure to connect one study with another.
For instance, after discussing some research, you might refer to how an author's findings were supported the results or countered them. This approach of comparing studies adds the depth of your ignou project.
Avoiding Common Writing Mistakes
An error that is often made is to write the literature review as the kind of chapter in a textbook. A brief explanation of the most fundamental concepts, like understanding of accounting's definition or of management do not belong in this section unless it is directly connected to other studies.
Another error is overquoting. Your review of literature should be written by you in yourself. The use of paraphrasing indicates understanding, whereas copying shows dependence.
Many students do not connect books to their own research study. Every research you present should have a clear connection with your project objectives.
Establishing a linkage Literature Review with Research Gap
One of the major results of a review of literature is identifying the gap in research. IGNOU reviewers expect you to expose what researchers of the past missed or indicate areas where further research is required.
After examining a variety of studies, you'll find that a lot of research focused on large firms smaller firms were left out. It is also possible that previous studies used secondary data but primary data was scarce.
The gap in the picture is the reason for your projects ignou.com. Without it, your work will seem repetitive.
Use of Citations and Referencing
In writing a review of literature it is important to use a proper citation. IGNOU generally accepts APA style, however it is more about consistency than perfection.
Each study must be mentioned in the list of references at the end of the project. The absence of references can raise doubts regarding authenticity.
Do not use footnotes for literature reviews. The in-text citation is better and appears more professional in an ignou MCOM project.
Length of Review of Literature Chapter
Students often inquire about how long their literature reviews should run. There isn't a set rule and for an ignou MCOM project, this chapter generally runs between fifteen hundred -two thousand words.
The length should depend on the level of complexity of the topic. A topic that is more extensive requires more study, while a particular topic will require fewer, but more in-depth discussions.
The need to write lengthy reviews that do not include an analysis won't help marks.
Example of Literature Review Writing Approach
Instead of writing this way,
Author A has studied banking's performance and obtained good results
Write as such
Author A carried out a study on bank performance with financial ratios. He concluded that profitability improved by a better management of assets. This conclusion was later affirmed by Author B in his study, who focused on the role of operational efficiency in increasing bank returns.
This approach is based on the ability to analyze and comprehend, which is valued in an ignou MCOM project work IGNOU; e-kou.jp, project.
Maintaining Originality and Academic Integrity
IGNOU takes plagiarism seriously. Many projects get denied or delayed because of duplicated literature reviews. Even if you reference earlier studies, the language you use must reflect the original.
Make use of plagiarism-checking tools if possible. If you are able, modify your content until it sounds natural. A sentence that is slightly flawed is more effective than perfect copying.
Final Review Before Submission
Before submitting an ignou mcom project, make sure you read the literature review carefully. Find out if the study you are reviewing is relevant, if the flow is rational, and whether the chapter flows naturally towards your research objectives.
Ask yourself one simple question. Does this section explain why my study is needed. If the answer is yes it's on the right path.
Closing Thoughts
Writing a literature review for a ignou mcom project is not easy at first particularly for those returning to academics after a gap. Once you realize that it's all about connection and analysis rather that memorization, the work can be accomplished.
It is important to take time to read, consider, and write in your unique voice. It is reflected clearly in your final product and often can be the difference in an average submission and a solid one.