Searching a methods topic: practical challenges and implications for search design.

Hirt, Julian and Ewald, Hannah and Briel, Matthias and Schandelmaier, Stefan (2024) Searching a methods topic: practical challenges and implications for search design. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY, 166. p. 111201. ISSN 0895-4356 (print); 1878-5921 (online)

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Abstract

Researchers may review the methodological literature (perform a "methods review") for different reasons: to inform the choice of methods when designing a study (e.g., diagnostic study, adaptive trial); to identify solutions for methodological challenges when conducting a study (e.g., slow recruitment) or analyzing the results (e.g., handling missing data, data visualization); to find material for teaching or consulting (e.g., nontechnical explanation, worked example); or to inform methodological research (e.g., compare different methods, develop methods guidance). Performing a methods review can be challenging and guidance remains unavailable. With this commentary, we aim to raise awareness about common challenges that reviewers addressing methods topics may encounter during the search process. We present a case study to illustrate common challenges, suggest solutions, and discuss research needs.

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