Write a review article that compares evidence
A review article should help a reader understand a field, not simply count its publications. Use Citation to organize comparisons and connect the synthesis to the studies on which it depends.
- Audience
- Researchers
- Role
- Research fellow
- Project
- Review article
- Reading time
- 2 min read
State the review question and the scope of the literature you intend to include. Record the search and selection process required by your review method.
Keep the population, measures and setting of each study beside its finding. Those details determine whether results can be compared.
Read the question behind a result
Identify what each study was designed to investigate. Record the method and the limits that affect how its findings can be used.
Avoid comparing effect sizes or conclusions without checking whether they describe the same outcome and population.
Build an analytical outline
Group studies around a meaningful comparison, such as a method, a disagreement or a change in the field.
Give each section a question to answer. Use individual studies as evidence for the synthesis rather than as a sequence of standalone summaries.
Preserve uncertainty
Distinguish an inconsistent result from a difference in design or measurement. Explain what evidence would be needed to resolve the issue.
Check whether a revision makes the literature seem more settled than it is. Keep appropriate qualifications in the final prose.
Test the structure with a reader
Invite a colleague to comment on the comparisons and transitions. Ask whether the organization makes the state of the evidence understandable.
Resolve source questions against the original studies. Comments and AI suggestions can identify problems but do not validate a finding.
Check the synthesis
Read the conclusion against the included evidence and the stated scope. Remove recommendations that extend beyond what the review establishes.
Check citations and exported references, and review any reporting guideline required by the journal or review method.