Review articles

Definition

Review articles are scholarly papers that summarize and synthesize existing research on a particular topic. They provide a comprehensive overview without presenting new experimental data.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Review articles help identify trends, gaps, and key findings in a specific area of research.
2. They are typically written by experts who have extensive knowledge in the subject matter.
3. These articles often include a substantial bibliography, guiding readers to primary sources for more detailed information.
4. In biology, review articles can cover broad topics like genetics or specific areas like the impact of climate change on biodiversity.
5. Review articles are peer-reviewed to ensure accuracy and credibility.

Review Questions

• What is the primary purpose of a review article?
• How do review articles differ from original research articles?
• Why are review articles important for understanding scientific trends?

Related terms

Primary Research Article: An article presenting original experimental data and findings.

Meta-Analysis: A statistical analysis that combines results from multiple studies to identify patterns.

Systematic Review: A methodical and comprehensive literature synthesis focused on a particular research question.