Stage 2: Developing the Search: Save & Document the Search Results

Saving and Documenting the Search Results

Documenting your search plan and search results are an important part of the synthesis review process, as it respectively lays the groundwork for the Methods and Results sections, and for future publications.

Specifically, documenting your search is important because it:

Here is some important information to document in your search plan and search results:

It is highly recommended that you consult the formal guidelines for your specific type of review.

If you are conducting a Cochrane review, refer to the Cochrane Handbook section 4.5 for specific guidelines for documenting your methodology

If you are conducting a Cochrane or non-Cochrane review, refer to the PRISMA reporting standards and flow chart