Literature review main role – UGC NET Question

The review of literature synthesises existing research findings, theories and debates relevant to the present study. It highlights what is known, what is contested and where gaps remain. This section justifies the need for the new study and situates it within the broader field. Thus, the critical summary of previous work is called the review of literature.

Option A:
The methodology section describes the design, sample, tools and procedures used in the current study. It does not primarily summarise past studies, so it is not the correct term here.

Option B:
The abstract is a brief overview of the entire report, including problem, method and findings, but it is not a section that systematically reviews prior research. Therefore, it does not match the description.

Option C:
Option C, review of literature, compiles and critiques earlier work in order to show how the present study builds on or differs from it. It is the recognised name for this part of a report, so it correctly completes the stem.

Option D:
The findings section presents the results of the current investigation, often using tables and figures. It reports what was discovered rather than what earlier researchers have done. Hence, findings is not the right option.