What does a well-structured literature review typically include?

A well-structured literature review typically includes a synthesis of major trends and gaps in the literature because this approach aims to assess and summarize the existing body of knowledge on a particular topic. By identifying key themes, patterns, and areas where research may be lacking, the literature review provides a comprehensive overview of what has been studied and informs future research directions. This synthesis allows researchers, practitioners, and scholars to understand the broader context, evaluate the contributions of various studies, and pinpoint where further exploration is necessary.

In contrast, a list of all known researchers would not offer critical insights into the literature itself. Similarly, detailing the methodology of each study is excessive for a literature review, as the focus is on overarching conclusions rather than individual research methods. Finally, summarizing personal opinions does not contribute to a scholarly review; a literature review should be grounded in evidence-based findings rather than subjective viewpoints.