Document a search so it can be revisited
Keep queries, databases, filters, dates and selection decisions in a search log.
Follow the method ↓
The answer in 30 seconds
A link list does not explain how material was found. Keep a log to clarify choices and limitations. PRISMA provides transparency principles for systematic reviews; this simple worksheet alone does not establish PRISMA compliance.
Record question, database, exact query, filters and date. Keep selected references and reasons. Separate initial searches and updates because evolving databases can return different results for the same query.
Examples to adapt
Fictional example: a newly indexed article appears. Keep its new date and reference without rewriting the initial log.
Fictional example: a deposit and final publication appear. Link versions rather than automatically counting two studies.
Follow the method
- 1Define scope
Write the question, document types, languages and period sought. Explain chosen limits. General introductions and exhaustive reviews require different coverage and control.
- 2Record each search
Copy the executed query with operators and filters, database name and date. Keep tool-specific versions; syntax can mean different things across databases.
- 3Keep selection decisions
Identify references by title, authors and identifier when available. Record inclusion, exclusion or pending reading with a concrete reason. Separate duplicates, unavailable text and out-of-scope material.
- 4Prepare updates
Add a new line for each rerun instead of overwriting the initial search. Compare new references and status changes. Describe unsearched databases and restricted access to make coverage understandable.
A checklist to keep
Use these checks to record your observations. They are a reading aid, not an automatic assessment.
| Check | What to examine | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Question and criteria | Write limitations |
| Search | Database, query, filters, date | Keep one row per execution |
| Selection | Reference and reason | Document decisions |
| Update | New material and changes | Keep chronology |
Free, no sign-up. UTF-8 text with semicolon-separated columns.
What to check
Documented searches are not necessarily exhaustive.
Search dates differ from publication dates.
Exclusion reasons should be factual and scope-related.
Common questions
Must every file be retained?
Keep useful references and evidence within access rights; the log does not require republication.
Will result counts stay identical?
No. Databases and indexes change; dates and parameters help explain differences.
Does this worksheet satisfy PRISMA?
No. Consult the statement and guidance appropriate to the review type.
Sources and documentation
Documentation consulted on . Examples are illustrative; interfaces and results may change.
Reference record for this resource
Identify the publisher, official destination and practical checks before using the service.
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