In a literary survey, students analyse critically and concisely earlier research and literature related to a particular research problem, and utilize them for their own research purposes. It helps students in understanding the significance of new research and its connections to earlier work. The survey may display an insufficiency in the literature, which a new research can correct. In such case, the survey focuses on what is known about the topic and what is not known.

In the master’s thesis, a literary survey usually forms a theoretical background for the research, in which case it focuses on literature crucial to the research problem. The survey presents earlier viewpoints and research, and how the student’s work relates to these. In examining literature, attention is paid to research methods, main results and conclusions.

The literature survey demonstrates viewpoints, methodological solutions and research results related to the area. The existing information is critically analysed so that contradicting and differing research methods are shown. Only material that is relevant and directly related to the research is selected in the survey. Critical approach is recommended in selecting the literature.

The research problem and personal aims must be kept in mind when compiling the survey. It serves a particular aim and purpose. The intention is to form a dialogue with earlier research knowledge through selection and argumentation. The student’s aim is to create a background for new research and to process information critically.

The survey should be organised so that different viewpoints, schools of thought and interpretations are clearly separated.