Research question
Key concepts
What are the most important aspects or key terms of you research question? Which synonyms could you use?
Example: Experiences of partner violence during pregnancy
Systematic review - Research question
The starting point when developing a search strategy for a systematic review is a clear and concise research question, which helps you consider the main concepts of your review. The main concepts will also be the basis of your database searches and will guide you when choosing inclusion and exclusion criteria. One way to structure your review question is to use a framework like PICO, SPICE or PEO. With a well defined research question you get a clear idea on your eligibility criteria, as well as getting you a manageable search result.
PEO
|
Population |
Who is in focus? |
|
Exposure |
What is the problem? |
|
Outcome |
What is the outcome? |
PEO
Research question:
Experiences of partner violence during pregnancy
| Population | Person being pregnant |
| Exposure | Partner violence |
| Outcome | Experiences |
PICO
Research question:
The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy for men committing partner violence
| Population | Partner violence (men commiting) |
| Intervention | Cognitive behavioral therapy |
| Control/Comparison | No treatment or other treatment |
| Outcome | The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy (change in behavior) |
Systematic review: Search terms
Using a framework like PICO or PEO helps you structure the search, in creating different search blocks, making it easier to create a comprehensive yet still precise and balanced search strategy. In the tables below are examples of how to use the PEO and PICO frameworks for your search strategy.
PEO
Research question:
Experiences of partner violence in pregnancy
PICO
Research question:
The effect of cognitive behavioral therapy for men committing partner violence
