How to Write a Systematic Review: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction A systematic review attempts to comprehensively and reproducibly collect, appraise, and synthesize all available empirical evidence that meets pre-defined criteria in order to answer a research question. The quantitative combination and statistical synthesis of the systematically-collected data is what defines a meta-analysis. Here, we first attempt to delineate the basic steps for conducting a systematic review: initial planning, conducting the search, data extraction, and quality analysis. We then outline the fundamental steps for assessing the appropriateness of meta-analytic technique for your review and an explanation of statistical tools available for data analysis and presentation. An academic discussion regarding the strengths and weaknesses of systematic review methodology is beyond the scope of this guide, as are detailed instructions regarding statistical analysis.