One of the biggest early-stage mysteries in dissertation writing is how long should a literature review be in a 10,000-word dissertation? Most students assume it needs to be massive, but in reality, it’s usually around 2,500–3,000 words—enough to map the field without drowning in citations.

The real magic isn’t the length, though—it’s showing how the existing research connects to your question. Once you focus on themes, debates, and gaps instead of “how many sources,” the structure becomes way clearer.

If you’re drafting yours now, start broad, narrow fast, and let your research question guide what stays and what goes. Your future self will thank you.