Sensitivity and supplementary analyses
Main analysis → assumption perturbation or supplementary question → alternative analysis → comparison
Flow diagram
Steps
Main analysis and target estimand
Identify the primary estimate and assumptions.
Robustness or supplementary question?
Distinguish the same estimand under alternative assumptions from a different scientific question.
Sensitivity analysis
Perturb assumptions while retaining the target estimand.
Supplementary analysis
State the different estimand, population or additional question.
Compare results on defined scales
Describe agreement and differences without treating all analyses as interchangeable.
Interpret robustness and limitations
Record implications for the original conclusion and remaining uncertainty.
Tables and supporting information
Analysis comparison
Keep the target estimand visible for each row.
Scenario rationale
Cite prespecified sensitivity plans and supporting methodological sources.