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Reference management

Reference management

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References and citations of identified literature should be systematically collected, organized, and tracked during the search process.

Citation management software may be used to import, store, and de-duplicate search results from multiple databases, ensuring a clean and efficient workflow.

These tools also facilitate collaboration among team members, allow for easy sharing of reference libraries, and support the automatic generation of in-text citations and bibliographies in manuscripts.

Effective reference management is essential for maintaining transparency, accuracy, and reproducibility throughout the evidence synthesis process.

Level descriptors

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Aware that different forms of reference management software exist to assist with managing search results including citation management tools (e.g. Zotero or Mendeley) and screening software (such as Rayyan or Covidence).

Explains why screening results of literature searches needs to be done accurately with the records managed and recorded carefully.

Uses reference management software to store and organize the results of database searching.

Understands the range of tools available along with their pros and cons.

De-duplicates search results using reference management tools. Finds and removes retracted papers.

Drafts record management section of protocols and final evidence synthesis report, including search results at each stage of the screening process, following an agreed standard format (e.g. PRISMA, ROSES).

Provides high-quality advice and guidance on reference management sources and best practices for managing and presenting search results to teams.

Designs and/or delivers training on reference management.

Sets standards and devises workflows within your organization regarding the transparent and robust management of search results.

Leads and promotes the development of reference management on a national and international basis.

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