What is Gap Analysis?
Gap analysis is the process of identifying areas where existing research is lacking or incomplete. It helps researchers determine where further investigation is needed.
Purpose of Gap Analysis
- Define research objectives based on missing knowledge.
- Justify the need for your study.
- Guide future exploration in the field.
How to Conduct Gap Analysis
- Review existing studies systematically.
- Identify inconsistencies or untested hypotheses.
- Compare theoretical predictions with empirical evidence.
Useful Tools
- Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science).
- Citation maps and keyword analyses.
Final Tips
A strong gap analysis strengthens your research proposal by clearly showing what new contribution your work will make.