A Researcher's Survival Kit for Conducting a Systematic Review

Embarking on a systematic review can be demanding, meticulous, and sometimes mind-numbing. But with the right survival kit, you can navigate this challenging journey with your sanity intact.

Patience and Persistence

First and foremost, arm yourself with a hefty dose of patience and persistence. Systematic reviews are not sprints but marathons. There will be days when sifting through endless abstracts feels like watching paint dry. Remember, no matter how tedious, each step brings you closer to a comprehensive and valuable research outcome.

Collaboration and Communication

Teamwork makes the dream work, especially in systematic reviews. Regular check-ins with your co-researchers or supervisors are essential. Use digital tools for team collaboration, task delegation, and tracking. Celebrate small victories together, whether finishing the screening of a particularly dense database or finalising your data extraction forms.

Comfortable Workspace

Set up a comfortable workspace. Ergonomic chairs, a tidy desk, and good lighting can prevent physical strain and keep you productive. If possible, switch locations occasionally – a change of scenery can do wonders for your focus and creativity. But don’t get too comfortable; you do not want to fall asleep, which can be tempting when it’s late at night and you have another hundred abstracts to screen.

A Reliable Playlist

Keep your spirits up with a reliable playlist. Whether it is classical music for deep concentration, upbeat pop to keep your energy levels high, or nature sounds to soothe your nerves, having the right background music can make the long hours of reading more bearable. Personally, I like turning on some busy café ambience noise.

Snacks and Hydration

Never underestimate the power of snacks and hydration. Healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or even a cheeky piece of chocolate can provide quick energy boosts. Keep a water bottle within reach to stay hydrated. A cup of coffee or tea can be your best ally for those late-night sessions.

Celebrate Milestones

Celebrate milestones along the way. Finished screening 500 abstracts? Completed data extraction for 30 studies? Treat yourself! Recognising these achievements keeps morale high and motivation strong.

Conducting a systematic review is no small feat, but with the right survival kit, it can become manageable and enjoyable. Embrace patience, foster collaboration, enjoy good music and snacks, and don’t forget to celebrate your achievements.

With these strategies, you’ll survive your systematic review and thrive, producing valuable and impactful research.