Evidence Synthesis Guide : Develop & Register a Protocol

This guide provides information and resources which may be helpful when undertaking a systematic review, scoping review or other type of evidence synthesis review.

Develop Your Research Protocol

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A protocol is a plan or set of steps to which a study will adhere. A protocol for a systematic review should describe:

  • The rationale for the review
  • The objectives of the review
  • The methods that will be used to locate, select, and critically appraise studies
  • The methods that will be used to analyze data from the included studies

Development of a protocol promotes transparency, helps reduce the potential for bias, and serves to avoid unintended duplication of reviews.

Consult Cochrane Interactive Learning Module 2: Writing the Review Protocol for further information.  *Please note you will need to register for a Cochrane account while initially on the Mayo network. You'll receive an email message containing a link to create a password and activate your account.*

See also Covidence's Practical Guide: Protocol Development for Systematic Reviews or Practical Guide: Protocol Development for Scoping Reviews

  • Last Updated: Dec 10, 2025 9:23 AM
  • URL: https://libraryguides.mayo.edu/evidencesynthesis
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