How do I know when I'm done researching my topic?

How much literature should I use in my literature review?

Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025     Views: 13

Know that research is never truly complete, so finding all of the appropriate information might not be done. However, it does reach a halting point, indicating that you can proceed with writing or completing your literature review.

Combined, the following factors can indicate it’s time to stop searching:

  • You are familiar with key theorists and theories, seminal research, and recent developments and trends associated with your topic.
  • You have searched all related databases, as well as dissertations.
  • You have exhausted all related search terms and strategies.
  • You have checked reference lists and performed citation chaining.
  • You are repeatedly seeing the same research in your search results.

Discussions with your advisors and your peers can be helpful as well. Check out Tips to Refine Your Research in the library’s How Do I Research a Literature Review guide.

One great way to stay current and updated on research is to set up search alerts. Search alerts will allow you to save time by avoiding repeating your searches and receiving automated updates. To set up search alerts in the library, you’ll first need to create an account in the database you are searching.

Check out these FAQs for guidance on creating accounts for the most used databases:


If you need additional assistance with your research or have another question, please Ask Us!