From the abstract: "Students entering a graduate program often encounter a new type of assignment that differs from the papers they had to write in high school or as college undergraduates: the literature review (also known as a critical review essay). Put briefly, a literature review summarizes and evaluates a body of writings about a specific topic."

From Helen Mongan-Rallis at UMD. Includes links to additional helpful guides.

From UNC, a nice overview of of what a literature review is and ways to organize one.