UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

The review of related literature is a systematic examination, summary and critique of past research and theoretical writings on the topic. It helps identify what is already known, where the gaps or inconsistencies lie and how the present study can contribute. By organising and evaluating earlier work, the researcher situates the new study within the broader knowledge base. Because the stem mentions a critical summary and synthesis of existing research, review of related literature is the most accurate term.

Option A:
Research design describes the overall strategy and structure for conducting the study, including methods of data collection and analysis. It does not primarily focus on summarising and critiquing previous research findings. Therefore, research design does not match the function described in the stem.

Option B:
A research synopsis is usually a concise proposal or outline of a planned study submitted for approval, covering the problem, objectives, methods and expected outcomes. While it may briefly mention some literature, it is not itself the critical survey of prior studies that the question refers to. Thus, research synopsis is not appropriate here.

Option C:
The review of related literature organises prior studies thematically or conceptually and highlights areas that require further investigation. It guides the formulation of research questions, hypotheses and design choices. These roles align directly with the stem’s description of a critical summary and synthesis of existing research, confirming it as the correct answer.

Option D:
Data interpretation is the stage at which the researcher explains the meaning of the analysed data from the current study, not a summary of previous work. It deals with the new findings rather than with the existing body of research. Consequently, data interpretation is not the correct completion.