The main purpose of the review of published literature is to
A) show that the investigator is knowledgeable.
B) find the answer to the research question that one has formulated.
C) establish the significance of the study by showing that other researchers have been interested in the same topic.
D) link the question with the body of knowledge and take the next logical step.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main purpose of a review of published literature is to link the research question with the existing body of knowledge and take the next logical step in exploring the topic. This allows researchers to identify gaps in the literature, develop hypotheses, and justify the significance of the study. While demonstrating knowledge is important, it is not the primary purpose of the literature review. Additionally, finding the answer to the research question may be a goal of the study itself, but the literature review serves as a foundation for this investigation. Therefore, option D, linking the question with the body of knowledge and taking the next logical step, is the best choice. Option C is partially correct in that the review does establish the significance, but it is not the sole purpose. Option A is incorrect because while demonstrating knowledge is important, it is not the main purpose of a literature review. Option B is incorrect because finding the answer to the research question is not the primary goal of the literature review but can be a goal of the study.

The Main Purpose of the Review of Published Literature Is