Lecture 35 - Finding the Best Evidence

what is a systematic search

search method that can be used to underpin any kind of review

logical, step-by-step process

obvious, easy to read and understand

allows for easy identification of errors and making corrections

what is a systematic review

an experimental research method that results in a review publication

what are the steps in a systematic search

1. clearly describe a research question

2. identify concepts in the research question (PICO, highlight concepts on paper)

3. write concepts into circles

4. identify synonyms for each concept

5. combine search concepts using appropriate operators (and, or)

what is truncation

a search technique that allows the inclusion of multiple word endings or variants by using a symbol (usually an asterisk) at the end of a root word.

how should synonyms be combined within a concept of a topic

use OR → more results

how should terms be combined between concepts of a topic

use AND → fewer, more focused results

what are subject headings

standardized terms used in database indexing that describe the content of a document for easier retrieval.

how can AI support systematic searching

suggest major concepts from the outset

develop preliminary Medline or PubMed search for ideas

brainstorm key words (synonyms, related terms)

do NOT use it to identify subject headings

provide suggestions on how to structure the search (e.g. how to use truncation)