What is a Systematic Review?
Systematic reviews attempt to identify, appraise, and synthesize all evidence that meets pre-specified eligibility criteria to answer a specific research question. Systematic reviews require:
- A team of at least 2-3 researchers
- A registered protocol
- Methodology conducted in accordance to established guidelines
- Reproducible and transparent search strategies of multiple relevant databases
- Two phases of screening (i.e., Title/Abstract and Full Text) conducted by at least 2-3 researchers (3 or more researchers are recommended to help resolve disputes)
- Critical appraisal of all included studies
- Reporting in adherence with PRISMA guidelines
How Long Does a Systematic Review Take?
With five team members, an average systematic review takes approximately 62-67 weeks (Borah et al., 2016):
| Systematic Review Step | Timeline |
| Pre-review tasks: Assemble a team, develop research question, determine inclusion and exclusion criteria, begin the protocol registration, and meet with a librarian | 4-6 weeks |
| Preliminary search strategy development: Determine relevant databases and develop pilot search strategy | 6-8 weeks |
| Finalize search strategy: Modify search strategy and adapt search strategy across relevant databases. Run final search, de-duplicate results, and import final results into a screening software | 6-8 weeks |
| Screening: Conduct title/abstract and full text screening | 8-12 weeks |
| Critical appraisal: Complete risk-of-bias assessment of included studies | 8-12 weeks |
| Data extraction: Complete data extraction of included studies | 8-12 weeks |
| Write the review: Refer to reporting standards and guidelines | 8-12 weeks |
Is a Systematic Review Right for You?
"Review Methodologies Decision Tree" by Cornell University Library is licensed under CC BY 4.0.