A literature review is a comprehensive summary of existing research on a specific topic. It involves gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing various sources, such as books, articles, and studies, to understand what is already known. This process helps identify gaps in knowledge and provides a foundation for new research. In academic writing, a literature review is often included in research papers or theses. It allows researchers to demonstrate their understanding of the field and situate their work within the broader context of scholarly discourse. By reviewing the contributions of other scholars, they can build on previous findings and avoid duplicating efforts.