How to Do a Meta-Analysis — Step-by-Step Guide
A meta-analysis combines results from multiple studies to produce a pooled estimate of effect. This guide covers the entire process from planning through statistical analysis and reporting, with emphasis on common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Audience
Researchers, biostatisticians, and systematic review teams.
Use Case
Conduct a rigorous meta-analysis from planning through reporting, using best-practice statistical methods.
Guide Depth
6 steps · 5 features
Workflow
- 1Define your PICO question and eligibility criteria.
- 2Conduct systematic search and study selection.
- 3Extract effect sizes and variance measures from included studies.
- 4Run meta-analysis using appropriate model (fixed or random effects).
- 5Assess heterogeneity, conduct sensitivity analyses, and check for publication bias.
- 6Report results following PRISMA guidelines with forest plots.
Outcome Signals
- Produce a rigorous, reproducible meta-analysis
- Avoid common statistical and methodological errors
- Meet journal reporting standards for publication
Execution Checklist
- Step-by-step meta-analysis workflow from protocol to publication
- Fixed-effect vs random-effects model selection
- Heterogeneity assessment (I-squared, Q-test, prediction intervals)
- Forest plot interpretation and creation
- Publication bias detection (funnel plot, Egger test)
Common Questions
Composite Team Feedback
Representative feedback patterns from teams using this kind of medical literature workflow.
Research Writer
"The paper and citation workflows cut down the time between reading a paper and deciding whether it belongs in the draft."
Less tab switching during literature review work
Research Librarian
"We point faculty to these guides when they need a repeatable workflow, not another generic AI answer."
More consistent literature review workflows