How to do a systematic review step by step?
Short answer
A systematic review follows a structured process: (1) define your question using PICO, (2) register a protocol (PROSPERO), (3) search multiple databases systematically, (4) screen titles/abstracts then full texts, (5) extract data from included studies, (6) assess quality using appropriate tools, (7) synthesize results (meta-analysis if possible), and (8) report following PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
Execution Steps
- 1Define your research question using the PICO framework.
- 2Register your protocol in PROSPERO and publish it if possible.
- 3Develop a comprehensive search strategy across 3+ databases.
- 4Screen titles and abstracts using two independent reviewers.
- 5Screen full texts against eligibility criteria and document exclusion reasons.
- 6Extract data using a pre-piloted extraction form.
- 7Assess quality using appropriate tools (RoB 2 for RCTs, NOS for observational).
- 8Synthesize results narratively and/or with meta-analysis.
- 9Report using the PRISMA 2020 checklist and flow diagram.
Prompt Template
Help me plan a systematic review on [topic]. I need a PICO question, search strategy for PubMed/Embase/Cochrane, and a timeline estimate.
Common Failure Points
- Starting the review without a registered protocol
- Searching only one database (always search 3+ databases)
- Using a single reviewer for screening (always use two independent reviewers)
- Not verifying references for retractions before finalizing
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