What is how many sources should be in a literature review?

The number of sources in a literature review is not fixed and depends on several factors. There is no magic number. A comprehensive literature review might include anywhere from dozens to hundreds of sources. The key is to be thorough without being overwhelming.

Here's a breakdown of factors influencing the number of sources:

• Scope of the Topic: A narrower, more focused topic will generally require fewer sources than a broad, complex one. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Scope%20of%20the%20Topic

• Length of the Review: A longer, more in-depth review will necessitate more sources to support its claims and provide a comprehensive overview. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Length%20of%20the%20Review

• Discipline/Field of Study: Certain disciplines (e.g., humanities) might prioritize in-depth analysis of fewer, foundational texts, while others (e.g., sciences) might emphasize a broader range of recent empirical studies. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Discipline/Field%20of%20Study

• Purpose of the Review: A literature review serving as part of a larger research project (e.g., a thesis or dissertation) will typically require more sources than a standalone review article. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Purpose%20of%20the%20Review

• Publication Venue: A peer-reviewed journal might have different expectations than a book chapter or conference paper. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Publication%20Venue

Ultimately, the goal is to demonstrate a strong understanding of the existing literature and to identify key themes, debates, and gaps in knowledge. Focus on the quality and relevance of the sources rather than simply aiming for a large quantity. Make sure that you are covering the most important and influential work in your area, even if that means including a smaller number of highly cited sources. See: https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Quality%20and%20Relevance