Which is a key purpose of a literature review?

• A. Identify gaps in knowledge
• B. Present new experimental data
• C. Distract from research question
• D. Provide personal opinions

Answer: (A)

Gauging what is already known and where the questions still aren’t answered is what a literature review does. By surveying and synthesizing existing studies, it shows what gaps exist in the current knowledge, explains how the new work fits into the field, and helps justify why the study is needed. It should pull together findings from published research and present them objectively, rather than adding new experimental results or personal opinions.

Presenting new experimental data isn’t the aim of a literature review; that information belongs in the study’s own results and methods. The review should not distract from the research question or introduce subjective views; it should clarify the topic with evidence and context.