Guide to Literature Review Types in Research

This guide provides an overview of various literature review types commonly used in research, including systematic, scoping, narrative, and rapid reviews. It outlines the importance of selecting the appropriate review type to align with specific research objectives, emphasizing that each type serves distinct purposes and follows unique methodologies. The document explains the process of evidence synthesis, which involves integrating findings from multiple studies to create a comprehensive understanding of a topic. It highlights the role of literature reviews in informing policy and practice, identifying trends, and evaluating the quality of evidence. Additionally, the guide discusses frameworks such as PICO and PCC that can help researchers match their questions to the appropriate review type, ensuring that the research conducted is meaningful and reliable. By understanding the differences between review types, researchers can avoid misinterpretation of findings and enhance the credibility of their work.