When to conduct a narrative literature review?

When to conduct a narrative literature review?

Descriptive literature reviews are conducted at various stages in the research process for several reasons. They are often done at the beginning of a research project to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge on a specific topic. This helps researchers understand what has already been studied and identify gaps in the literature that can be addressed. Descriptive reviews are also useful when summarizing a broad field of study to offer a foundational understanding for new researchers or practitioners entering the field.

Descriptive reviews are done when there is a need to compile and present existing research findings in a clear and organized manner, such as for educational purposes, policy-making, or informing practice in a specific area. They help establish a context for subsequent, more detailed research reviews, such as systematic or critical reviews. For example, if reviewing the literature on social media’s impact on mental health, a descriptive review might organize findings from different papers by age groups or social media platforms used. This allows for a thematicsynthesis of how different demographics are affected.

This type of review is also useful for other researchers when discussing identified gaps or differences in the subject, as it organizes a large body of empirical evidence and research evidence coherently. For example, a descriptive review of climate change might catalogue studies on various mitigation strategies. This enables researchers to see at a glance which strategies have been most extensively studied and where further research is needed. By identifying key themes, trends, and gaps, descriptive reviews set the stage for more focused research efforts.