A research paper typically begins with a question or thesis statement. The writer uses existing research—and sometimes original research—to support, argue, or explore that idea in depth.
A literature review, on the other hand, is a critical summary and analysis of existing, published material on a specific topic. It doesn’t present new arguments or original research, but instead evaluates and synthesizes what others have already written.
In short:
- Research paper = builds an argument or explores a question
- Literature review = surveys and analyzes existing research
