Guides: Systematic Reviews, Scoping Reviews, and other Knowledge Syntheses: How to conduct a knowledge synthesis

Knowledge synthesis process

This guide covers the steps in the process of a knowledge synthesis.

1. Question: Formulate a clear, answerable question

2. Protocol: Write and register a protocol that outlines the steps you will take in the review

3. Search: Conduct a systematic, reproducible search to find articles relevant to your question

4. Screening: Look at each article to see if it matches your inclusion and exclusion criteria

5. Appraisal: Assess the quality of the studies included in your review

6. Synthesis: Summarize the knowledge you have found

7. Writing: Write your methods and results for publication

Contact us

Notice

Due to a large influx of requests, there may be an extended wait time for librarian support on knowledge syntheses.

Find a librarian in your subject area to help you with your knowledge synthesis project.

Or contact the librarians at the
Schulich Library of Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Engineering
s chulich.library@mcgill.ca

Need help? Ask us!

Online training resources

The Art and Science of Searching in Systematic Reviews
Self-paced course on search strategies, information sources, project management, and reporting (National University of Singapore)
CERTaIN: Knowledge Synthesis: Systematic Reviews and Clinical Decision Making
"Learn how to interpret and report systematic review and meta-analysis results, and define strategies for searching and critically appraising scientific literature" (MDAndersonX)
Cochrane Interactive Learning
Online modules that walk you through the process of working on a Cochrane intervention review. Module 1 is free (login to access) but otherwise payment is required to complete the online training
Introduction to Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Free coursera MOOC offered by Johns Hopkins University; covers the whole process of conducting a systematic review; week 3 focuses on searching and assessing bias
Online Methods Course in Systematic Review and Systematic Mapping
"This step-by-step course takes time to explain the theory behind each part of the review process, and provides guidance, tips and advice for those wanting to undertake a full systematic review or map." Developed using an environmental framework (Collaboration for Environmental Evidence, Stockholm Environment Institute)
Scoping Review Methods for Producing Research Syntheses
Two-part, online workshop sponsored by the Center on Knowledge Translation for Disability and Rehabilitation Research (KTDRR)
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis
Online overview of the steps involved in systematic reviews of quantitative studies, with options to practice. Courtesy of the Campbell Collaboration and the Open Learning Initiative (Carnegie Mellon University). Free pilot
Systematic Searches
Developed by the Harvey Cushing/John Hay Whitney Medical Library (Yale University)
SYRCLE Course on Systematic Reviews of Animal Studies
"This e-learning is an introduction to systematic reviews of animal studies. You will practice some of the steps of a systematic review and learn about the advantages as well as the limitations of this methodology. " Free to enroll as of October 26, 2023.