6 Reasons Why Literature Review Is Important for Research

One of the most critical tasks when undertaking a research study is going through existing literature to familiarize oneself with the available evidence. Of course, reviewing literature consumes much time that could go into the research and writing process. 

The procedure is also detailed and frustrating. However, literature reviews are essential and rewarding. It contributes to every step in the research and writing process, from the topic selection to the discussion stage. Here are some notable reasons why students need to prioritize literature review. 

• Establishes Context for the Study 

One of the main reasons why students are asked to conduct literature reviews when working on academic projects is to offer context for the research to follow. A well-argued review of credible and authoritative literature puts the present study in perspective. It demonstrates how the research relates to what scholars have accomplished before. The review also helps in the identification of gaps in the existing knowledge. 

In other words, students can use literature reviews to create new research questions and guide their inquiry. Don’t panic if you have no clue how to review important literature. You can easily hire professionals from academic writing agencies to offer credible literature review help

• Helps Evaluate the Current State of Research on a Subject 

Another benefit of conducting a literature review is that it allows writers to assess the present state of a topic and determine its credibility. When choosing an area for writing, it helps to explore what has already been established on the issue. You also want to know whether you will find enough sources and evidence to support your writing. Again, reviewing the literature helps you determine what has already been researched. 

• Helps Bring Clarity to Your Research Question 

A good review of the literature deepens your understanding of the research question. The challenge is that it is impossible to review without some idea of the topic you intend to research. At the same time, you need to check the literature to understand better the subject you wish to study. 

In other words, analyzing the existing literature gives you an excellent chance to conceptualize the research issue and prepare for a detailed analysis. The review also helps a researcher to identify critical questions relating to the study topic. These areas require further exploration based on apparent knowledge gaps on the issue. 

• Helps to Determine Methodologies Used in Previous Studies

Another benefit of reviewing the literature is that you can explore the methods used by past researchers to reach their findings. Knowing other scholars’ approaches to exploring similar topics allows you to decide how to shape your study. In addition, you can use the information to determine the strategies that may be ideal for developing your case. 

You can also decide which angle to adopt and the challenges to expect during your study. When students improve their awareness of the pitfalls they are likely to encounter, they are better able to pick research methods that can provide credible answers to the project questions. 

• Helps Students Avoid Incidental Plagiarism 

One of the most significant crimes students can commit in academic writing is plagiarism. Most people inadvertently commit plagiarism because they are not thorough in their literature review and citations. You may write and submit a paper, only to realize that the work has already been done and published by someone before you. 

While you won’t be accused of plagiarizing someone else’s work, having similar studies will make others question the authenticity of your work. When you prepare a literature review, you can identify what others have already done. This allows you to tweak your title and approach for greater authenticity. 

• Helps With Formulating a Theoretical Framework 

In academic research, theoretical frameworks link the study to the available knowledge. The student is guided by relevant theory and provided a basis for the hypothesis. By articulating the theoretical framework and assumptions, you will be compelled to address how and why you intend to conduct your study. By examining what authorities in your field have to say on the topic, you can clarify your rationale and demonstrate how your project is connected to existing theory. 

Literature review performs different functions, including giving context to the study. It analyzes some of the most notable studies in the field and outlines their contributions to the subject. The review also allows the researcher to formulate a theoretical framework and identify research problems. In other words, reviewing pertinent literature offers direction for future research, helps contextualize the present study and saves the researcher considerable time.