What a systematic review is
Systematic reviews and scoping reviews are structured assessments of all existing research on a research question. They require extensive literature searching, transparent processes and reporting according to recognized standards.
A complete systematic review takes about a year, and possibly longer depending on the size and capacity of the research team.
What the Library of Medicine helps with
The Library of Medicine provides assistance in all phases of the search process and documentation, as well as transferring references to reference management tools and deduplication.
Search strategy and database selection
- Recommendations of relevant databases and resources
- Developing a search strategy and carrying out the search
- Adapting the search to each individual database
- Updating the search before publication
Documentation and reporting
- Documenting the search process
- Help with following standards for protocols and reporting (PRISMA)
- An appendix with the complete search history
Reference management and screening
- Transferring references to EndNote or Zotero
- Deduplicating references
- Suggesting tools for screening and quality assessment
Who can get help
- PhD candidates at the Faculty of Medicine
- Researchers and staff at the Faculty of Medicine
- Staff at Helse Bergen
Students at master's and bachelor's level usually receive training as an integrated part of their studies.
Preparation and courses
You should be well acquainted with the process of a systematic review and its standards. The following web pages give an overview of what it means to write a systematic review.