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Why record your search strategy? It is important for
If you are writing a systematic review it is crucial to report your strategy in full detail for each source you have searched.
For recording your strategy in full, you should include:
Please note if you are carrying out a systematic review, please ensure you consult relevant documentation on reporting, for example as set out in the Cochrane Handbook or PRISMA statement.
You should copy and paste the strategy directly from the database you used, if possible.
In many cases it is possible to save your search strategy. To do so, you would need to create an account with the database. Saving your searches means you are able to easily amend, re-run and adjust your search. In many cases you will be able to output the search strategy as a text based file. Please see the help guides for individual databases for more information, or contact us for more help.