Write the protocol and search record
Specify the question, eligibility criteria, planned sources and approach to synthesis. Keep complete search strings, database names and search dates. Record whether a protocol was registered or published and explain later changes.
Reconcile screening records
Track retrieved records, duplicates, screening decisions and full-text exclusions. Describe reviewer roles and how disagreements were resolved. The flow diagram should be generated from a consistent log, not reconstructed from remembered totals at the end.
Pilot extraction and appraisal
Test the extraction form on a small number of included studies and refine unclear fields. Select an appraisal approach suitable for the study designs. Keep reported findings separate from values derived by the review team, and explain any conversions or assumptions.
Choose and explain the synthesis
Assess whether the evidence can be meaningfully combined. Report the method, uncertainty and limitations, including the reasons a quantitative meta-analysis may be inappropriate. Use the relevant PRISMA resources for reporting and check any extension needed for the review type.