How do I minimize bias in my systematic review?

Systematic reviews are designed to minimize bias by:

• attempting to collect all evidence on a research topic
• following clearly defined standards and guidelines such as predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria
• using multiple independent reviewers and examining grey literature.

Following reporting guidelines such as PRISMA 2020 can help minimize bias.

Learn more

• Cochrane Methods – Bias
   
• Page MJ, Higgins JPT, Sterne JAC. Chapter 13: Assessing risk of bias due to missing results in a synthesis. In: Higgins JPT, Thomas J, Chandler J, Cumpston M, Li T, Page MJ, Welch VA (editors). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions version 6.3 (updated February 2022). Cochrane, 2022.

See also

• What are inclusion and exclusion criteria for systematic reviews?
• What standards or guidelines should I follow to design, conduct and report my systematic or scoping review?