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A literature search involves searching and compiling all the literature (books, journals, and more)
available on a specific topic. It is carried out to identify knowledge gaps in a particular topic,
which will then guide further research in that topic. It is also carried out to provide background
in a study, support methodologies, provide context or comparisons for discussions, and more.
One of the most important reasons to do a literature search is to have enough information to
formulate a valid research question. A literature search is typically carried out by scientific
researchers, academics, R&D personnel of large businesses and organizations, entrepreneurs,
healthcare professionals (also called a systematic review) and by students who have to write a
thesis/dissertation (also called a literature review).
Starting off a literature review without an clear and focussed research question will mean that
you will dig up a lot of literature not relevant to what you actually want. So, develop a research
question that is:
Focussed
Not too broad and not too narrow in scope
Complex enough to allow for research and analysis
While doing the literature search, make notes from the “Suggestions for Future Work” in the
papers you find relevant and interesting. This will help you formulate your research question
better and make the focus of your research clearer.
Outsourcing your literature search to a subject area expert or experienced researcher can help
you save time and energy.
GoodLuck