According to the Cochrane Library, a systematic review seeks to identify, evaluate, and synthesize all empirical evidence that meets pre-established eligibility criteria to answer a specific research question. This process uses explicit methods to minimize bias, aiming to produce reliable findings that can inform decision-making.
Clearly defined objectives and eligibility criteria for included studies
A transparent, reproducible methodology
A comprehensive literature search to capture all relevant studies
Evaluation of the validity of findings, such as assessing risk of bias
A structured presentation and synthesis of study characteristics and results
Before beginning, it's essential to understand the demands and suitability of a systematic review. Decision tools, such as What Type of Review is Right for You? can help determine whether this approach aligns with your research goals.
If a systematic review isn't appropriate, this guide also outlines other types of reviews that may better suit your needs (see “Types of Reviews” page).
Be prepared for a significant time commitment. Systematic reviews typically take 12 to 18 months or more to complete. Developing thorough searches and reviewing large volumes of citations can be time-intensive, with search results potentially yielding thousands of records depending on the topic.
Adapted from Systematic Reviews for Social Sciences Guide, https://guides.lib.usf.edu/systematicreviews/introduction
An Introduction to Systematic Reviews by 
Systematic Reviews by 
