What is the function of a literature review in research?

A literature review serves the critical function of summarizing and evaluating existing research on a specific topic. This comprehensive examination identifies gaps in the current body of knowledge, highlights recent findings, and discusses various perspectives within the field. By synthesizing prior studies, a literature review provides the necessary context and justification for a new study, helping to position the researcher’s work within the existing literature.

This foundation allows researchers to articulate the significance of their study, making clear how their research will contribute to, challenge, or expand upon what is already known. This contextual framework is essential for establishing the relevance and necessity of the new research undertaken.

In contrast, presenting original experiments conducted by the researcher is not a literature review's role but rather the focus of a research article or study report. Statistical analysis and results are part of reporting findings but do not fit within the scope of a literature review. Similarly, collecting qualitative data through surveys pertains to data collection methods rather than the synthesis and evaluation of existing research.