The primary purpose of a literature review is to analyze and evaluate existing research related to your topic, presenting it in a coherent way that supports your thesis.
- Establishing Context: A good literature review places your research in context by summarizing key findings from previous studies. It highlights the relevance of your research question within the broader academic discussion.
- Identifying Research Gaps: As you review the literature, your goal is to identify areas that need further research. For instance, if most studies focus on the environmental impacts of deforestation, you could explore its social or economic effects.
Understanding the purpose of a literature review will help you present your arguments in a clear, concise, and logical manner.