Question and Answer

How many databases should I search for a systematic review?

Systematic and scoping reviews both aim to retrieve a comprehensive set of literature on their topic, so searching one source is not adequate. 

Bramer et al. (2017) state that searches for systematic reviews should search at least Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar as a minimum requirement to guarantee adequate and efficient coverage.

Learn more

Batten, J., & Brackett, A. (2020). Ensuring the rigor in systematic reviews: Part 3, the value of the search. Heart and Lung, 50(2), 220-222. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrtlng.2020.08.005

Bramer, W. M., Rethlefsen, M. L., Kleijnen, J., & Franco, O. H. (2017). Optimal database combinations for literature searches in systematic reviews: a prospective exploratory study. Systematic Reviews, 6(1), 245. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13643-017-0644-y

See also

Which databases should I search when doing a systematic review?

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