Research methods
Building a reproducible literature search
A process that allows another researcher to understand and repeat the search.
Translate the research question into core concepts, synonyms and identifiers. For a peptide this may include the common name, development code…
02Record the search exactlyFor each database save the complete query, filters, date and result count. Export identifiers before deduplication. The history supports error checking…
03Screening and transparent reportingApply the same criteria to titles, abstracts and full texts, recording exclusion reasons at the final stage. PRISMA 2020 and PRISMA-S…
Question and concepts
Translate the research question into core concepts, synonyms and identifiers. For a peptide this may include the common name, development code and receptor targets. Record eligibility criteria, languages, dates and study types in advance.
Record the search exactly
For each database save the complete query, filters, date and result count. Export identifiers before deduplication. The history supports error checking and updating without relying on memory.
Screening and transparent reporting
Apply the same criteria to titles, abstracts and full texts, recording exclusion reasons at the final stage. PRISMA 2020 and PRISMA-S provide frameworks for transparent reporting of flow and search strategies. Reproducibility does not guarantee completeness, but makes the process auditable.
LABORATORY APPLICATION
Turning the principle into an auditable record
For each search retain database, platform, full string, fields, filters, date, result count and export file. Apply consistent eligibility criteria and a second review for uncertain records. When updating, rerun the saved strategy and document every change.
PRIMARY & OFFICIAL SOURCES
Sources and further reading
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions specific to this topic
What makes a search reproducible?
Complete recording of database, query, filters, date and selection process.
Why use synonyms?
Because sources may use a common name, development code or different terms for the same concept.
What does PRISMA provide?
A framework for transparent reporting of selection flow and strategies in systematic work.