Literature Review
A literature review is a systematic process of identifying, evaluating, and synthesizing existing research and scholarly publications on a specific topic or research question. It involves analyzing and summarizing the current state of knowledge, identifying gaps, and establishing a theoretical foundation for new work. In technical and development contexts, this often includes reviewing academic papers, documentation, technical reports, and industry publications to inform project decisions, tool selection, or research directions.
Developers should learn and conduct literature reviews when starting new projects, exploring unfamiliar technologies, or conducting research to avoid reinventing solutions and build upon established knowledge. It is crucial for making informed decisions about architecture, libraries, or methodologies, such as when choosing between machine learning frameworks or evaluating security best practices. This skill helps ensure work is grounded in evidence and aligns with industry standards or academic advancements.