Types of reviews in the field of evidence synthesis

Abstract

The broadness of the definition of review has created confusion in conceptualization and usage between different types of review. Therefore, on the basis of summarizing relevant review methodological literature, this article classifies reviews into 9 types, and provides the definition, classification, scope of application, advantages and disadvantages, production processes, relevant reporting guidelines or the latest information about reporting guidelines. According to the problems in the process of generalization, relevant suggestions are put forward so as to provide clear and definite guidance for researchers to carry out a specific type of review.

Keywords

• evidence synthesis
• review
• methodology