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Evidence Synthesis Reviews

What is evidence synthesis?

“Evidence synthesis uses formal explicit rigorous methods to bring together the findings of studies already completed and to provide an account of the totality of what is known from that pre-existing research. Evidence synthesis clarifies what is known and not known about a research question.” Gough, D., Davies, P., Jamtvedt, G. et al. Evidence Synthesis International (ESI): Position Statement. Syst Rev 9, 155 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-020-01415-5 

Image based on DiCenso A, Bayley L, Haynes RB (2009). Accessing pre-appraised​ evidence: fine-tuning the 5S model into a 6S model. Evidence-Based​ Nursing, 12(4),99-101.

Types of evidence synthesis review

This subject guide covers the different types of evidence synthesis review. Follow the links for detail about the methodology, reporting and resources. 

Step-by-step process

This subject guide covers the steps involved in undertaking an evidence synthesis review. Please note that not all steps are required for all types of evidence synthesis review. 

  1. Protocol  
  2. Searching 
  3. Records removed before searching
  4. Screening records  
  5. Eligibility assessment 
  6. Critical appraisal / risk of bias assessment  
  7. Data extraction 
  8. Synthesis 
  9. Certainty assessment   
  10. Presentation of results  
  11. Discussion  
  12. Writing up