How to analyze the existing literature gaps in the discipline?

Literature gap analysis identifies deficiencies, contradictions, or under-explored areas within existing published research on a specific topic or discipline. It systematically determines what is not yet known or insufficiently investigated. Effective gap analysis requires a comprehensive and critical synthesis of current scholarly work. Essential principles include conducting a thorough literature review, utilizing systematic methods for search and selection, employing critical appraisal of sources, synthesizing findings thematically, and contrasting differing viewpoints or methodologies. Scope identification and framework application are crucial to ensure meaningful gaps relevant to advancing the field are pinpointed, while rigor prevents mere subjectivity. Caution must be exerted to avoid misrepresenting existing studies or overlooking significant bodies of work. To conduct the analysis, systematically organize and categorize the reviewed literature's themes, methodologies, populations, and findings. Compare and contrast these elements to highlight inconsistencies, unresolved questions, or unexplored aspects. Document specific limitations within studies and evidence for contradictory results. The outcome provides a clear justification for new research directions, grant proposals, and theoretical development by demonstrating how future work addresses an existing shortcoming and contributes novel knowledge or understanding.