How to conduct literature research

Definition of literature search

Literature search refers to the systematic process of identifying, locating, and reviewing of the existing published materials relevant to the particular research topic or question. It is a crucial procedure that helps researchers collect and evaluate the existing knowledge, theories, and findings related to their area of study.

The scientists conduct literature searches to gain knowledge and help make accurate and relevant research conclusion. Literature search is an integral component of the scientific investigation process and it is usually called evidence-based research practice that is applied to produce the best available proof.

Other purposes to conduct literature search include:

Identify the existing knowledge. By exploring the literature, researchers can identify what has already been studied and published on their topic. This helps in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the subject and avoids duplicating previous research efforts.

Formulate research questions and objectives. Literature search helps researchers refine their research questions and objectives by identifying any gaps or areas that require further investigation. It allows them to develop a clear research focus and establish a context for their study.

Build a theoretical framework. Literature search aids in building a theoretical framework by examining relevant theories, concepts, and models proposed by previous researchers. This theoretical foundation provides a basis for the research design and analysis.

Identify appropriate methodologies and methods. Reviewing the literature enables researchers to identify and evaluate various research methodologies and methods that have been employed in previous studies. This helps in selecting the most appropriate approach for their own research and refining their research design.

Support arguments and evidence. Literature search provides researchers with evidence and arguments from previous studies that can be used to support their own research. It helps in substantiating claims, forming hypotheses, or providing a context for interpreting and discussing research findings.

Avoid bias and ensure rigor. A comprehensive literature search helps researchers ensure that their study is not biased and that they consider different perspectives and findings. It contributes to the rigor of the research process by ensuring that the study is grounded in existing knowledge and that the research design is robust.

Short overview of literature search procedure

Literature search is a complicated process and to make it successful it must involve several steps: defining research question or topic, identifying appropriate information sources, developing search strategies, reviewing and analyzing the literature, documenting and citing the sources. Fig. 1 describes the steps while searching the literature and presents the actions a researcher must carry out.

Fig.1. Steps of literature search

Literature search form

To simplify your research job and prepare a good manuscript suitable for high rank journal, you are recommended to use the following literature search form. It will help you to plan and conduct a successful literature search.

Thus, literature search acts as a guiding tool to navigate through a number of scholarly works. It equips us with the necessary knowledge and facilitates our investigations, making them interesting and useful. Literature search helps us uncover the existing theories, methodologies, and findings. Also, it contributes to building of a solid foundation for our research project.

To conclude, literature search is not only a process of information collection but it is a possibility to be engaged with academic community promoting the productive conversations in scientific circles. Ultimately, it empowers us to make informed decisions, shape our research questions, and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge.

References:

Cooper, C., Booth, A., Varley-Campbell, J., Britten, N. & Garside, R. (2018). Defining the process to literature searching in systematic reviews: a literature review of guidance and supporting studies. BMC Medical Research Methodology, 18, 85. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-018-0545-3

Heath, A., Levay, P., & Tuvey, D. (2022). Literature searching methods or guidance and their application to public health topics: A narrative review. Health Information & Libraries Journal, 39, 6-21. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/hir.12414

Snyder, H. (2019). Literature review as a research methodology: An overview and guidelines. Journal of Business Research, 104, 333-339. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2019.07.039.

Timmins, F. & McCabe, C. How to conduct an effective literature search. (2005). Nursing Standard, 20(11), 41-47. DOI: 10.7748/ns2005.11.20.11.41.c4010