What is the primary goal of conducting a literature review in research?

Conducting a literature review primarily involves gathering, summarizing, and analyzing existing research on a particular topic. This comprehensive examination allows researchers to understand the current state of knowledge and the significant contributions that have been made in their area of interest. By synthesizing the findings from various studies, researchers can form a cohesive understanding of the topic, which is essential for establishing a foundation upon which further research can be built.

Through this process, researchers can also clarify concepts, track developments over time, and identify theoretical frameworks that may have been used in previous work. It positions their own study within the broader academic discourse, showing how it relates to and differs from past findings. A well-conducted literature review is vital for advancing knowledge and guiding future research decisions.

While identifying gaps in existing research is indeed an important component of a literature review, the primary aim encompasses the broader task of synthesizing and analyzing the information available on the topic. Similarly, proposing new research methodologies or recruiting participants pertains to more specific tasks related to conducting studies rather than the overarching goal of a literature review.