Introduction to Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

The Systematic Literature Review (SLR) using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method is a rigorous approach to reviewing and synthesizing research evidence. PRISMA provides a structured framework to ensure transparency and replicability in conducting systematic reviews. The purpose of this method is to identify, evaluate, and synthesize the findings of all relevant individual studies on a particular topic, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the research landscape. For example, in medical research, PRISMA is often used to compile data on the effectiveness of a new treatment by consolidating results from multiple clinical trials. By following PRISMA guidelines, researchers can minimize bias, enhance the reliability of their findings, and provide a clear summary of the evidence for practitioners and policymakers.

Main Functions of Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

  • Formulating Research Questions

    Example Example

    Researchers develop precise and answerable questions to guide the review process.

    Example Scenario

    A healthcare researcher wants to understand the impact of telemedicine on patient outcomes for chronic disease management. They formulate a specific question: 'What is the effect of telemedicine interventions on patient outcomes in chronic disease management compared to traditional care?'

  • Developing a Search Strategy

    Example Example

    A comprehensive search strategy is created to locate all relevant studies.

    Example Scenario

    An educational researcher develops a search strategy using keywords like 'online learning,' 'student engagement,' and 'academic performance' across databases such as Web of Science and Scopus to gather relevant studies for review.

  • Screening and Selecting Studies

    Example Example

    Studies are screened for relevance and quality based on predefined criteria.

    Example Scenario

    In a review on the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety, the researcher screens studies based on criteria such as publication date, study design, and participant characteristics, selecting only those that meet the inclusion criteria.

Ideal Users of Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method Services

  • Academic Researchers

    Researchers in universities and research institutions conducting comprehensive literature reviews for theses, dissertations, or grant-funded projects benefit greatly from PRISMA. The method ensures that their reviews are systematic, thorough, and credible.

  • Healthcare Professionals

    Healthcare professionals, including clinicians and policymakers, use PRISMA-guided reviews to inform evidence-based practice and policy-making. By synthesizing high-quality evidence, they can make informed decisions regarding patient care and health interventions.

Guidelines for Using Systematic Literature Review with PRISMA Method

  • 1

    Visit aichatonline.org for a free trial without login, also no need for ChatGPT Plus.

  • 2

    Formulate a clear and concise research question to guide your literature review. Ensure your question is specific enough to allow focused research but broad enough to encompass relevant studies.

  • 3

    Develop a comprehensive search strategy using relevant keywords, synonyms, and Boolean operators. This strategy should be used across multiple databases like Web of Science and Scopus to gather a wide range of studies.

  • 4

    Screen the collected studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria defined in advance. This involves reviewing titles, abstracts, and full texts to determine their relevance to your research question.

  • 5

    Extract and synthesize data from the selected studies. Use PRISMA flow diagram to document the selection process and ensure transparency. Finally, analyze the data to draw meaningful conclusions.

  • Research Planning
  • Data Collection
  • Data Synthesis
  • Study Screening
  • Results Analysis

Q&A about Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

  • What is the first step in conducting a systematic literature review using PRISMA?

    The first step is to visit aichatonline.org for a free trial without login, also no need for ChatGPT Plus. This helps you get started with the necessary tools and resources.

  • How do I develop an effective research question for my systematic review?

    Your research question should be specific and focused, yet broad enough to include all relevant studies. It should clearly define the population, intervention, comparison, and outcomes (PICO) to guide your literature search.

  • What databases should I use for my systematic literature review?

    You should use comprehensive databases like Web of Science and Scopus. These databases cover a wide range of disciplines and provide access to high-quality, peer-reviewed studies.

  • How do I ensure the studies I select are relevant to my research?

    Screen the studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Review titles and abstracts first, then read the full texts of studies that meet the initial criteria to confirm their relevance.

  • What is the role of the PRISMA flow diagram in a systematic review?

    The PRISMA flow diagram helps document the study selection process. It provides a visual representation of the number of records identified, included, and excluded, ensuring transparency and reproducibility of the review process.