Q. What is a research gap?

A research gap, or gap in research, is an area in the scholarship of a particular field or discipline that has not been comprehensively studied or analyzed. Locating these gaps in scholarship is time-intensive and challenging as the ability to identify a gap in research emerges from a comprehensive knowledge of the field. To determine if a research gap exists, it is necessary to examine the current literature related to the particular research area.  This process, usually referenced as a literature review, includes gathering a significant number of resources that are representative of the research area. The literature review process is undertaken with the goal of seeing what gaps might exist in the current scholarly literature.  For assistance in beginning the literature review process, please contact one of your school’s subject librarians to set up a research consultation.

If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at (434) 582-2220 or at research@liberty.edu.