Explain 'peer review' in research.

Peer review is a critical process in the realm of academic and scientific research, wherein experts in the field evaluate a study before it is published in a scholarly journal. This evaluation focuses on the study’s methodology, significance, and overall contribution to the field.

The primary goal of peer review is to ensure the quality and integrity of research being published. By having knowledgeable individuals assess the work, it helps to verify that the research is sound, that the conclusions drawn are justified based on the data presented, and that the study adheres to ethical standards. This meticulous scrutiny aims to provide readers with reliable and credible information, fostering trust in the scientific process.

Other options mention summaries or feedback after publication, which are not aligned with the essence of peer review. A peer review specifically occurs prior to publication, making the second option the correct interpretation of the term.