How do I formulate my research question and selection criteria?

Formulate a research question in which, if possible, all aspects of your topic are named. The PICO model is a tool for setting up a clinical research question, clearly describing the patient category (Population/Patient), the intervention (Intervention/Indicator), the control treatment or comparison (Comparison/Comparator/Control) and the outcome (Outcome). You can find more information about PICO and selection criteria on the webpages about searching for researchers on the website of the Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent.

How do I find suitable search terms and how do I build a search strategy?

Using appropriate search terms is crucial for finding relevant information. You find Tips and Tricks on the webpages about searching for researchers on the website of the Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent.

How do I check the quality of my search strategy?

The PRESS (Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies) checklist is an evidence-based guideline for assessing search strategies for systematic reviews, among other things. You can also contact the Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent for more information in this area.

Which tools facilitate the process of selecting articles?

Rayyan is a free, web-based and user-friendly online tool mainly suitable for facilitating the process of selecting articles in a systematic review. 

How do I check the quality of (studies in) a systematic review?

You can assess the quality of systematic review using AMSTAR (Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic reviews).

What's the difference between a narrative and systematic review?

For information about the difference between a narrative and systematic review you can also visit the website of the Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent.

If you would like guidance and support when conducting and publishing systematic reviews in the domain of Life Sciences and Medicine, you can contact the Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent.