This document provides an overview of conventional methods and recent trends in conducting literature surveys. It begins by defining a literature survey as a systematic search of published works and other sources to identify relevant items on a particular topic. The significance of literature surveys is discussed, including discovering existing information, providing a starting point for one's own work, and avoiding duplication. Search strategies like defining terms, setting time and scope limits, and remaining flexible are covered. Sources of literature discussed in detail include books, journals, the library catalogue, the internet (including Google Scholar), and specialist materials like conference proceedings and government/corporate reports. The presentation concludes by listing references consulted in preparing the overview.