Describe the functions of literature review.

A literature review serves as a critical and comprehensive analysis of existing research and scholarly works relevant to a specific topic or research question. It plays a crucial role in academic and research endeavors, serving several functions that contribute to the overall depth and credibility of a study. Here are key functions of a literature review:

1. Establishing Context and Rationale:
   The literature review provides a context for the research by presenting the historical and theoretical background of the topic. It helps researchers establish the rationale for their study, demonstrating an understanding of existing knowledge gaps and the need for further investigation.

2. Identifying Knowledge Gaps:
   Through a thorough examination of existing literature, researchers can identify gaps, inconsistencies, or unresolved issues in the current body of knowledge. Recognizing these gaps helps define the scope of the research and highlights areas where new contributions can be made.

3. Defining Research Questions and Objectives:
   By synthesizing information from various sources, a literature review assists in refining research questions and objectives. It helps researchers clarify their focus and formulate specific hypotheses or research aims based on the existing state of knowledge.

4. Methodological Guidance:
   Literature reviews often discuss the methodologies employed in previous studies. Analyzing these methodologies helps researchers make informed decisions about the most suitable research design, data collection methods, and analytical approaches for their own study.

5. Synthesizing Existing Knowledge:
   A literature review involves the synthesis and integration of diverse perspectives, findings, and theories related to the research topic. This synthesis aids in creating a coherent narrative that not only summarizes existing knowledge but also provides a foundation for the development of new ideas and interpretations.

6. Critical Evaluation of Studies:
   Researchers critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of previous studies through a literature review. This process allows them to assess the quality of evidence, identify potential biases, and determine the relevance of each study to their own research.

7. Building Theoretical Frameworks:
   Literature reviews contribute to the development of theoretical frameworks by highlighting key concepts, models, or theories that have been influential in the field. Researchers can draw on these foundations to construct a theoretical framework that guides their own study.

8. Supporting Argumentation and Discussion:
   A well-conducted literature review strengthens the argumentation and discussion sections of a research paper. It provides a basis for comparing and contrasting findings, discussing implications, and positioning the new research within the broader scholarly conversation.

9. Ensuring Academic Integrity:
   Conducting a literature review demonstrates the researcher's commitment to academic integrity. Properly citing and referencing relevant sources not only acknowledges the contributions of others but also adds credibility to the research.

In summary, a literature review is a multifaceted tool that aids researchers in contextualizing their work, identifying gaps, refining research questions, guiding methodology, synthesizing knowledge, critically evaluating previous studies, constructing theoretical frameworks, supporting arguments, and upholding academic standards. It serves as an essential foundation upon which new research is built, contributing to the advancement of knowledge within a specific field.