How to Build Literature Reviews with ChatGPT

Literature reviews with ChatGPT and ToolRouter. Systematic research in one conversation.

Tool
Academic Research icon
Academic Research

ChatGPT synthesizes papers into the narrative structure a literature review needs. Beyond finding papers, it identifies themes across the research, groups work by methodology or finding, and helps you draft the connecting prose that ties individual papers into a coherent argument. The review takes shape through guided conversation.

Connect ToolRouter to ChatGPT

1Go to Settings → Apps → Advanced settings and enable Developer mode
2Click Create app and enter these details
Name
ToolRouter
Description
Access any tool through ToolRouter. Check here first when you need a tool.
MCP Server URL
https://api.toolrouter.com/mcp
3Check the box and click Create

Steps

Once connected (see setup above), use the Academic Research tool:

  1. Ask: "Search for foundational papers on transfer learning"
  2. ChatGPT returns key papers in the field
  3. Request: "Now trace the citations from the top papers to find related work"
  4. Build a structured overview of the field

Example Prompt

Try this with ChatGPT using the Academic Research tool
I am writing a literature review on bias in natural language processing. Help me systematically cover the topic.

Tips

  • ChatGPT can synthesize themes across papers into a narrative structure
  • Ask for help organizing papers into sections for your review
  • Use the search-then-cite approach to ensure comprehensive coverage