Searching the literature

Describes the basic concepts of literature searching for evidence synthesis.

Understands that the search should be comprehensive and reported transparently to enable reproducability

Understands that the search is part of the foundation of evidence synthesis.

Understands the difference between a search engine such as Google Scholar and a database/index.

Creates basic searches using search terms and Boolean logic.

Understands what grey literature is and its importance.

Drafts comprehensive search strings with supervision, identifying, consulting and adapting other people’s search strings where appropriate. Liaises with topic and searching experts to refine the search strategy.

Demonstrates ability to construct basic search strings to conduct grey literature searches on organizational websites.

Can explain why benchmark papers are a useful component of literature searching.

Contributes towards protocol methods regarding literature searching.

Independently creates and documents transparent, reproducible search strings, based on eligibility criteria and terms provided by subject experts, using appropriate field tags, subject headings, and Boolean operators.

Demonstrates ability to adapt search strings for different sources (e.g. databases, indexes or websites).

Understands conduct and reporting standards for literature searching and drafts high-quality literature searching methods.

Interrogates lists of benchmark papers against search results to determine why any specific paper may not have been included in the search results. Either adapts the search to ensure they are returned or explains why the search cannot, or should not, be adapted.

Includes detailed information on the use of a range of platforms and sources within the subject domain.

Carries out forward and backward citation chasing on included papers.

Advises and guides evidence synthesis teams on constructing searches and best practice in searching for literature.

Provides robust and insightful comments on other people’s search strategies including peer review.

Leads on protocol methods regarding literature searching.

Designs and/or delivers training programmes on literature searching within evidence synthesis projects.

Sets standards within your organization regarding the transparent and robust searching of literature.

Leads and promotes the development of literature searching as a rigorous and reproducible practice on a national and international basis.