How to Verify if Your Research Topic Has Been Studied Before

Starting the dissertation process involves a crucial step known as the literature review. This step is not just about summarizing what has been done; it is essential to demonstrate that you are exploring something new and contributing to the existing body of knowledge.

Using Google for Your Literature Review

The journey begins with a simple yet powerful tool: Google. Begin by typing your research question and see what comes up. For instance, if you are researching automation in manufacturing processes, you can search for "automation in manufacturing processes thesis problem statement" or "automation in manufacturing processes research objectives."

These searches will give you an immediate indication of whether similar studies have been done. Keep in mind that the search should be free of specific technical or thesistic words and will help you see if the angle of your future research is unique.

Performing a Thorough Literature Review

One of the most effective ways to perform a thorough literature review is to identify a gap in the existing research. This gap serves as the foundation for your thesis. Creating a literature review table in Excel can help you organize and analyze the existing studies. List the research questions, methodologies, and findings of each study to better understand the gaps in the current research.

Academic Databases for Theses and Dissertations

If you have access to an academic library, you can utilize databases such as ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global. This database, which dates back to 1743, contains millions of dissertations and theses from around the globe, offering a vast resource for your research. Check with your reference librarian to see if the library has access to this database. You can then search by topic or keywords to find out if your chosen topic has been extensively studied.

Getting More in-depth

Once you have identified potential gaps in the research or found existing studies, it is crucial to get a deeper understanding. Search scholarly journals to find more detailed analyses and methodologies. Most researchers will have access to these journals through their academic institution, but even if you don't, you can request citations from your library or a database. Studying the references in recent articles can lead you to more related and relevant works.

Conclusion

Before you begin your research and formulate your topic, it is essential to ensure that your work is original and not merely a duplication of existing studies. The literature review is a vital step in this process. By conducting a thorough search, utilizing academic databases, and analyzing the literature in scholarly journals, you can confidently identify the gaps in your field of study and formulate a unique and valuable research question.

Remember, Google is your friend. Use it to guide your initial searches, and use academic databases and scholarly journals to deepen your understanding. By adhering to these steps, you can ensure that your research is both original and valuable, contributing meaningfully to the existing body of knowledge.