Evidence Synthesis (ES) is a collection of research methods that allows researchers to identify, characterize, evaluate, and summarize all relevant evidence on a research question. ES projects can identify gaps in evidence, inform policymakers and practitioners, and establish an evidence base for best-practice guidance. Select examples of ES methods include systematic reviews, scoping reviews, rapid reviews, evidence maps, and systematic reviews with meta-analysis. 

CSU Libraries is able to offer expert consultations and instruction sessions on systematic reviews and evidence synthesis methods, tools, search strategies, and more for faculty, staff, and students across CSU. Please reach out!

Self-Guided Learning

Learn about the evidence synthesis process from concept to publication, including methods, guidelines, templates, tools, search design and more on our Systematic Reviews & Evidence Synthesis guide. 

Consultations and Search Review

Consultations on Methods and Resources

Book a session with the Evidence Synthesis Librarian for one-on-one or small group consultation on the methods, process, and tools for a systematic review or other evidence synthesis project.

• An initial session is recommended as early as possible in the project conception and planning phase 
• Up to two (2) one-hour sessions may be requested for any evidence synthesis project
  • Search strategy review consultations (below) are not counted towards this total
• Additional sessions may be requested if:
  • The project includes at least one CSU affiliated faculty member or staff researcher, AND
  • A project protocol is completed 

Search Strategy Review

Complete the Search Strategy Review Request Form for expert review of your draft search design. You may make this request during your initial search design for the protocol and when you translate the search strategy for other databases. If you do not yet have the components below prepared, request a consultation on methods and resources for further assistance.

At the time the request is made you must provide the following.

• The research question/aim 
• Inclusion/exclusion criteria 
• A completed draft of the search strategy including all search terms linked with Boolean operators and parenthesis 
• The list of databases you will search

We require at least one (1) week to complete the search strategy review

• An online or in-person consultation session for discussion of the search strategy MUST be booked for the first review of a search strategy 
• Additional requests for review of the same strategy may be made by email, with or without a consultation as preferred
• Your request may be waitlisted, depending on librarian capacity 
• If your search is for a general literature review, you may be re-directed to the Personal Research Help service

Your request may be waitlisted, depending on librarian capacity.

If your search is for a general literature review, you may be re-directed to the Personal Research Help service.

Acknowledgment & Co-Authorship

The CSU Libraries requests that methodological and search support offered by a CSU librarian be credited as an named acknowledgment in the final publication. Co-authorship may be discussed for significant contributions. In such cases, the librarian should have the opportunity to review and edit the appropriate sections of a manuscript before submission.

Classroom Instruction and Training Opportunities

The Evidence Synthesis Librarian at CSU Libraries is able to offer instruction sessions on systematic reviews and evidence synthesis methods, tools, and appraisal. Please reach out!

Scheduled Library Workshops

Scheduled workshops relevant to evidence synthesis are offered through CSU Libraries and CSU Writes. Check our calendar of events for upcoming options!

Classroom Instruction Requests

• Feel free to complete this request form, even if you are not yet sure of your needs or timing.
• Please make requests at least two weeks in advance – asynchronous support may take longer to arrange.

Lab Team, Department, or Other Small Group Trainings

Use the Evidence Synthesis Classroom Instruction and Small-Group Training Form to arrange a training session for your lab or research team, department, committee, student organization or another small group. Please make requests at least two weeks in advance.