Systematic reviews and literature reviews both discuss previous research, but they use different approaches. A literature review is a review of the literature used to describe, compare, and build an understanding from various sources related to a particular topic. Meanwhile, a systematic review uses a more structured process of searching, selecting, and synthesizing evidence based on predetermined questions and criteria. Systematic review reporting can generally follow the PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
What Is a Literature Review?
A literature review aims to provide an overview of the development of knowledge on a particular topic based on various scholarly sources. Authors can group the literature based on themes, theories, methods, or research findings.
This type of review is suitable when the author wants to:
- Explain the development of a topic.
- Compare theories or research findings.
- Identify a research gap.
- Provide a basis for developing new research.
Its structure and search methods can be more flexible, but the sources used should still be selected critically and remain relevant.
So, What Is a Systematic Review?
A systematic review is conducted through a more planned and transparent method to identify and synthesize evidence from relevant studies. The process may include defining the research question, establishing inclusion and exclusion criteria, developing a search strategy, selecting studies, extracting data, and synthesizing the results.
For reporting, PRISMA 2020 provides a checklist and flow diagram to help authors explain the process comprehensively.
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What Is the Difference Between the Two?
| Aspect | Literature Review | Systematic Review |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | More flexible | Systematic and structured |
| Source searching | Dapat lebih luas/fleksibel | Uses a defined search strategy |
| Study selection | Does not always use strict criteria | Uses inclusion and exclusion criteria |
| Purpose | To understand and discuss the literature | To systematically answer a research question |
| Reporting | Follows the journal structure | Can use PRISMA |
How Do You Choose the Right Type of Review?
Before writing, determine the purpose of your research and the question you want to answer. Do not use the term systematic review simply because the article discusses many studies. If you use a systematic approach, the process of searching for and selecting sources should be explained transparently.
Have you decided which type of review to use? Make sure your target journal accepts that type of article and check its author guidelines before submitting.
With the right preparation, the article publication process can be more focused and help reduce technical errors before submission.
Need help with editing or journal submission? Don’t hesitate to consult with a trusted publication service to ensure your process is smooth, professional, and secure
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