Introduction to Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

Systematic literature reviews (SLRs) are structured, transparent, and replicable methodologies for collecting and synthesizing research studies on a particular topic. The PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) method is a well-established framework for conducting systematic reviews, guiding researchers through the stages of the review process to ensure comprehensive and unbiased outcomes. PRISMA provides a detailed checklist and flow diagram to help ensure that the literature review includes relevant studies, tracks exclusions at each stage, and clearly reports the process and findings. A scenario illustrating PRISMA would be a medical researcher investigating the effectiveness of a new treatment for diabetes. They might use PRISMA to systematically gather clinical studies from databases like Web of Science and Scopus, assess each for relevance and quality, and synthesize the data to draw reliable conclusions on the treatment's efficacy. The structured PRISMA approach reduces the risk of bias and enhances the reliability of the conclusions, making it particularly useful for evidence-based fields such as medicine, psychology, and social sciences.

Main Functions of Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

  • Research Question Formulation

    Example Example

    A social scientist seeks to study the impact of remote work on employee productivity. Using PRISMA, they formulate a clear research question: 'What is the effect of remote work on employee productivity in companies operating in the technology sector?'

    Example Scenario

    The researcher ensures that the review follows a structured approach by starting with a clearly defined research question. This helps narrow down the scope of literature to be reviewed and ensures that relevant studies are systematically identified and analyzed.

  • Comprehensive Search Strategy

    Example Example

    A clinical researcher is reviewing studies on a new cancer drug. They use PRISMA to design a search strategy that includes keywords such as 'cancer', 'drug therapy', and 'clinical trials', targeting specific databases like Scopus and Web of Science.

    Example Scenario

    The researcher applies Boolean operators, filters, and precise inclusion/exclusion criteria to ensure that all relevant studies on the drug are included in the review. This prevents the omission of key studies and ensures a more complete understanding of the drug’s effectiveness.

  • Screening and Selection of Studies

    Example Example

    A public health analyst is evaluating studies on the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns. After an initial search yields 2,000 articles, the analyst uses PRISMA to screen and exclude studies that do not meet the inclusion criteria (e.g., non-English papers, those unrelated to public health).

    Example Scenario

    Using PRISMA’s flow diagram, the analyst tracks how many studies were excluded at each stage and why. This transparency ensures that only the most relevant and high-quality studies are included, allowing for more accurate conclusions.

Ideal Users of Systematic Literature Review using PRISMA Method

  • Academic Researchers

    Researchers in fields like medicine, psychology, and social sciences benefit from using PRISMA to ensure their literature reviews are thorough, methodologically sound, and replicable. PRISMA helps them synthesize existing studies, identify gaps in the literature, and justify the need for further research. It also facilitates the publication of high-quality reviews in peer-reviewed journals.

  • Policy Analysts and Decision Makers

    Government and non-governmental policy makers use PRISMA to inform evidence-based decision-making. By conducting systematic reviews of existing research, they can assess the efficacy of public policies, health interventions, or educational programs. PRISMA helps them ensure that their policies are grounded in robust, well-synthesized evidence, enhancing their credibility and impact.

Steps for Conducting a Systematic Literature Review Using PRISMA Method

  • Visit aichatonline.org

    Start your journey by visiting aichatonline.org, where you can access a free trial without the need for login credentials or ChatGPT Plus subscription.

  • Define Your Research Question

    Clearly articulate the research question or hypothesis you aim to explore. This will guide your systematic review and ensure you maintain focus throughout the process.

  • Develop a Search Strategy

    Craft a search strategy that identifies relevant keywords, databases (such as Web of Science and Scopus), and inclusion/exclusion criteria. This ensures you retrieve comprehensive and relevant literature.

  • Conduct the Literature Search

    Execute your search strategy using the identified databases. Systematically gather and screen the articles based on your predefined criteria, ensuring transparency and replicability.

  • Synthesize and Report Findings

    Analyze the selected studies, extract relevant data, and synthesize the findings. Use PRISMA to structure your reporting, ensuring clarity and consistency in presenting the systematic review results.

  • Academic Research
  • Systematic Review
  • Data Synthesis
  • Literature Analysis
  • Evidence-Based

Q&A About Systematic Literature Review Using PRISMA Method

  • What is the purpose of the PRISMA method in a systematic literature review?

    The PRISMA method (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) is a structured framework that ensures transparency, rigor, and replicability in systematic reviews. It guides researchers in systematically identifying, screening, and reporting on relevant studies, enhancing the credibility and clarity of the review process.

  • How do I ensure that my systematic review is comprehensive using PRISMA?

    To ensure comprehensiveness, define a clear research question, develop a robust search strategy using multiple databases like Web of Science and Scopus, and apply consistent inclusion/exclusion criteria. The PRISMA flowchart helps you track and report each stage of the process, ensuring no relevant studies are overlooked.

  • What databases are recommended for a systematic literature review using PRISMA?

    Key databases recommended for systematic literature reviews include Web of Science and Scopus. These databases provide access to high-quality, peer-reviewed literature across various disciplines, ensuring that your review covers a broad range of relevant studies.

  • Can PRISMA be used for qualitative as well as quantitative reviews?

    Yes, PRISMA can be applied to both qualitative and quantitative systematic reviews. While it is traditionally associated with quantitative reviews and meta-analyses, its structured approach is equally valuable in ensuring transparency and rigor in qualitative reviews.

  • What are common pitfalls to avoid when using the PRISMA method?

    Common pitfalls include poorly defined research questions, inadequate search strategies, and inconsistent application of inclusion/exclusion criteria. Failing to document and report the process in line with PRISMA guidelines can also compromise the review’s transparency and replicability.