What does a literature review entail?

A literature review involves conducting a comprehensive survey of existing publications on a specific topic. This process entails gathering, evaluating, and synthesizing previous research and relevant literature to provide a clear overview of what is already known about a subject. This kind of review is essential in establishing the context for new research, identifying gaps in the literature, and outlining the theoretical framework for further study.

In contrast, analyzing a single piece of literature focuses solely on that specific work rather than a broader examination of many sources. A personal interpretation of a text emphasizes subjective analysis rather than an objective overview of existing research. Summarizing a specific article narrows the focus to one piece and does not encompass the breadth of information necessary for a literature review, which examines multiple sources to form a comprehensive understanding of the topic.