Many scholarly works are usually accompanied by corresponding literature reviews. Authors of scholarly works often seek to expound on the existing knowledge of a phenomenon through reviewing evidence from existing sources. This essay, therefore, aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of a literature review. Additionally, this essay will expound on the critical elements that help in deciphering a literature review. A literature review can be explained as a summary of evidence derived from varied credible sources, such as journal articles, company websites, and books. Hart (2018) supports this assertion by elucidating that, “a literature review is an analysis and critical evaluation of existing knowledge that are applicable to the adopted research problem” (p. 3). For instance, evidence from a company website evidence existing knowledge, for instance, crucial information of a company’s workforce, practices, and products. In addition to the provision of a solid background of the topic under study, reviewed literature may help identify existing gaps that could be utilized to design the direction of the future research.
Conducting a literature review is a crucial practice in any research study, academic work, or a seminal project. Accordingly, Webster and Watson (2002) attribute the effectiveness of a literature review in providing a well-founded base for advancing knowledge. This understanding is outlined by identifying strengths and weaknesses as posed by proponents and opponents respectively on any given research topic. Similarly, Cronin, Ryan, and Coughlan (2008), and Ridley (2011) point out the significance of a literature review that helps contextualize the bigger picture surrounding the chosen research topic. Moreover, Cronin et al. (2008) elaborate on the step-by-step approach of carrying out a literature review, which helps present its critical elements in an organized way. Therefore, the summary of the reviewed literature can be organized into an introduction, main body, and subsequently, the conclusion. Conclusively, presenting what other researchers have deduced on a particular topic proves vital for building a case in the adopted research study or academic project.
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References
Cronin, P., Ryan, F., & Coughlan, M. (2008). Undertaking a literature review: a step-by-step approach. British Journal of Nursing, 17 (1), 38-43.
Hart, C. (2018). Doing a literature review: Releasing the research imagination . London: Sage.
Ridley, D. (2011). The literature review: A step-by-step guide for students . Los Angeles: Sage.
Webster, J., & Watson, R. T. (2002). Analyzing the past to prepare for the future: Writing a literature review. MIS Quarterly , 26 (2), xiii-xxiii.
