Literature Review Synthesis Matrix

The Dissertation Compass | dissertationready.com

Topic/Theme: Date:

How to use this matrix:
  1. Define 4-6 key themes or concepts from your research questions as column headers.
  2. Enter one source per row. For each source, note what it contributes to each theme.
  3. After completing 10-15 sources, read down each column to synthesize what the literature says about each theme across studies.
  4. Use the "Gaps / Notes" column to flag contradictions, methodological weaknesses, or areas where more research is needed.
  5. The synthesis from each column becomes a section of your literature review chapter.

Synthesis Matrix

Source (APA Citation) Theme 1: ___________ Theme 2: ___________ Theme 3: ___________ Theme 4: ___________ Gaps / Notes

Column Synthesis (Read Down Each Theme Column)

Theme What does the literature collectively say about this theme? What patterns, contradictions, or gaps exist?
Theme 1:
Theme 2:
Theme 3:
Theme 4:

Identified Gaps in the Literature

Gap Description How Your Study Addresses This Gap