Identifying research gaps through systematic use of academic databases

Locating a research gap requires a structured exploration of academic databases to uncover areas where existing literature is limited, outdated, or inconclusive. Scopus, with its comprehensive coverage of peer-reviewed journals and advanced citation tracking, allows researchers to trace the evolution of concepts and identify underexplored themes. In contrast, Google Scholar provides a broader, more accessible platform that captures diverse sources including theses, conference papers, and working drafts. By cross-referencing insights from Scopus’s curated indexing with Google Scholar’s wide reach, scholars can pinpoint gaps more effectively, ensuring their research contributes novel value to the academic discourse.