This week, I focused on writing my literature review, which is one of the most important parts of academic research. It’s basically the section that shows what other people have already said about the topic and how my project fits into that conversation. I aimed for around 600–650 words, so I needed to make sure it was focused, relevant, and actually helpful to the direction I’m taking.
A literature review is more than just a summary—it’s like building the foundation of the research. It usually includes an introduction to the main theories and ideas, a main body that brings together different sources (from broader ideas to more specific ones), and a conclusion that points out what’s missing in the current research or where I might be going next.
While writing mine, I tried to avoid just describing each article and instead grouped similar ideas and themes—especially around identity, digital spaces, and immersion. I looked at what each author was saying about how people build and live through digital selves, how immersive environments like games or VR shape that process, and what psychological effects might come with it. I also made sure to reflect on the gaps in the research—like areas where things are still evolving, or where the tech is moving faster than the theories.
Doing this helped me see where my own research sits. It clarified a lot of things and made me think deeper about what I’m actually trying to say. Writing it took some effort, but now I feel like I have a much clearer structure for the next stages of the project.