REVIEW OF

LITERATURE (ROL)
A review of the literature is a comprehensive
review of existing research on a topic. It is used to
identify trends, gaps, and inconsistencies in the
existing research and demonstrates how the
research fits in with a large field of study.

OR
I T ' S I MP TANCE
Describe relation of New ways to interpret prior
each work to another research and identification
and revealing gaps that + correction of
exist in literature. discrepancies

Resolving conflict
b/w seemingly Locating own
contradictory research within
studies and context of
fulfilling the need existing
for additional literature
research

A review of literature consists of summaries,

analysis & understanding of relevant sources and
thus, has an organizational pattern, with a
combination of summary and synthesis.

TYPES OF REVIEW OF
LITERATURE (ROL)

ARGUMENTATIVE INTEGRATIVE HISTORICAL

Examines literature
selectively.
To support/refute an
argument, deeply embedded
assumption, or philosophical
problem already in literature.
both positive & negative must
be included.
Most common in social
sciences.
Focuses on examining a
Reviews, synthesizes, &
critiques the literature in an research throughout a
integrated manner to form new period of time.
frameworks & perspectives on a Starts with the first time an
topic. issue, concept, theory,
If written properly, it can meet phenomena etc. emerged in
the standards of primary
the literature.
research

METHODOLOGICAL
Focusses on the method of analysis of the
findings.
Provides framework of understanding at different
levels - theory, substantive fields, research
approaches, data collection, analysis techniques. Focus is on specific emperical questions in
Used in fieldwork in the areas of ontological and
epistemological considerations.
Quantitative & qualitative integration, sampling,
data collection etc.
Helps highlight ethical issues that one should be
aware of.
SYSTEMATIC
Goal is to deliberately document, critically
evaluate & summarize all researches
about a topic scientifically.
cause & effect form.
Primary usage seen in clinical medicine
and allied health fields to examine prior
research studies.
Increasingly being used in social sciences.