Systematic Reviews and Related Evidence Syntheses

1. Develop the research question(s)
2. Develop the inclusion criteria
3. Develop a comprehensive search strategy
4. Search relevant databases
5. Perform grey literature searches (dissertations, conference papers, reports) and supplementary searches (e.g., forward/backwards citations, handsearching journals, contacting authors)
6. Screen titles and abstracts using eligibility criteria, usually done by 2 reviewers
7. Screen full text noting the reason for exclusion, usually done by 2 reviewers
8. Develop a form or table to extract (or chart) data from the study
9. Analyze data, typically using descriptive statistics or descriptive approaches
10. Report search methods; and report results of the literature searches and screening (PRISMA Flow Chart/Diagram)
11. Report results that answer the study's research questions

Based on Arksey & O'Malley (2005) and Peters et al. (2020).