Anth 3100/6980: Sex, Culture and Sexuality (Papavasiliou)

A literature review does not present an original argument, but instead is an overview or discussion of existing literature (scholarly writing) on a particular topic. The literature may come from books, articles, reports, or other formats.

It's a review because it usually contains a summary, synthesis, or analysis of the central arguments in the existing literature.

...an annotated bibliography.

• An annotated bib is a list of sources with a summary of each one.
• A lit review synthesizes and highlights the ideas from many sources, pointing out strengths, weaknesses, common themes and contradictions among them.

...a research paper, although it is often part of one.

• A research paper presents a single idea or argument and uses sources to support its conclusion.
• A lit review compares and discusses sources that may contradict each other, without drawing any final conclusions.

This video by NC State Libraries is an excellent explanation: