• collect a comprehensive set of publications on the topic

• build a picture of the nature and scope of the problem

• develop a framework for evaluating possible solutions

• analyse the specific work described in the publications

How comprehensive?   (a.k.a. how many references is enough?)

• until you are convinced that you have all relevant material
• some topics may require: one main ref + one general ref
• other topics may have dozens of relevant publications
• use your judgement when to stop (and ask supervisor)