Which of the following are the steps in a systematic review of literature?

1.Search for archival records

2.Define the purpose

3.Assess the relevance of selected studies

4.Identify the quality of each study

5.Interview the authors of each study selected

A1, 2 & 3 only

B2, 3 & 4 only ✓ Correct

C3, 4 & 5 only

D1, 2 & 5 only

Correct answer: (B) 2, 3 & 4 only

Explanation

A systematic review defines the purpose, assesses the relevance of selected studies, then judges the quality of each study.

Defining the purpose fixes the review question and inclusion criteria at the outset.

Assessing relevance screens studies for their fit with that question.

Judging quality appraises the rigour of each retained study.

Searching archival records belongs to primary data collection, not literature synthesis.

Interviewing the authors of each study is not a step in any systematic review.

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