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How to conduct a systematic review, step by step

The studies we miss are systematically different from the ones we find easily: null results, work from underrepresented regions, findings that challenge the dominant narrative. Comprehensiveness is the defence against that bias. For each concept we list synonyms, spellings and acronyms, add the controlled vocabulary, MeSH in PubMed and Emtree in Embase, and combine them with OR to expand and AND to narrow. Databases still miss evidence, so we search trial registries, reference lists and grey literature too. Eligibility criteria and the protocol are written before the search, never after.

Also covered: PICO framework · dual independent screening · Cohen's kappa · critical appraisal · meta-analysis · flow diagram