Scoping search and source selection

Identify relevant evidence sources

Use source-of-evidence terminology where eligible material extends beyond research studies. Document PCC and source types. Critical appraisal is purpose-dependent rather than an automatic treatment-effect step.

Flow diagram

Scoping search and source selectionF1.S1Define scope and source typesF1.S2Design and document searchesF1.S3Deduplicate and pilot selectionF1.S4Screen and resolve disagreementsF1.S5Link included sourcesF1.N1Source selection logStageSource typeDecisionReasonReviewerIdentificationScreeningEligibilityF1.N2Assumptions and rationaleF1.N3Method and protocol evidenceF1.S0 Start flowScoping search and source selectionF1.S999 End flowEnd flow

Steps

Define scope and source types

Specify population, concept and context, eligible evidence sources and language or date restrictions.

Design and document searches

Record reproducible strategies, databases and grey-literature routes with dates.

Deduplicate and pilot selection

Retain provenance; pilot criteria with reviewers before applying them consistently.

Screen and resolve disagreements

Separate record screening from full-source assessment and record exclusion reasons.

Link included sources

Link multiple records to their sources and retain the selection log for evidence charting.

Scoping search and source selection

End flow

Tables and supporting information

Source selection log

Source selection logStageSource typeDecisionReasonReviewerIdentificationScreeningEligibility

Replace the first-column stage labels as needed; document source types and selection decisions.

Assumptions and rationale

Critical appraisal is optional and must be justified for the scoping purpose; selection does not imply an effectiveness review.

Method and protocol evidence

Attach the protocol, methodological sources and versioned software specification supporting these decisions. Record citations and provenance; do not enter participant identifiers.

Sources