Keep the source and platform, exact query, run date, filters, result count and export location. Add selection and deduplication records so another researcher can trace what happened next.
Source basis: 1. Cochrane · 2. BMJ (Clinical research ed.) · 3. Scientific data
Record the executable search
Cochrane’s search guidance distinguishes the database from the platform through which it is accessed. That difference matters because syntax, fields and indexing can vary. Preserve the exact query, platform, date, limits and result count. An autism search may need several terms or controlled headings; a simple keyword search should not be called comprehensive without an appropriate rationale. If an information specialist changes the strategy, retain both the change and the reason.
Track what happens after retrieval
Search results are usually reports, not a ready-made set of independent studies. Record exports, identifier matching, duplicates and selection decisions. PRISMA 2020 supports transparent reporting of the flow into a systematic review, while FAIR principles explain the value of identifiable, traceable research objects. These sources support a documented workflow; they do not guarantee that the search found everything relevant.
An editorial working example
A review team could keep a row for each search execution and a separate table for report-to-study links. If a search is rerun, create a new row rather than replacing the earlier one. Compare newly retrieved identifiers with the retained set before describing the difference as new evidence. A corrected record or a second report is not necessarily a newly conducted study.
| Focus | What to document | Interpretation question or limit |
|---|---|---|
| Search execution | Database, platform, exact query, date and limits | Retain an export identifier or file checksum |
| Record processing | Duplicates, report links and screening decisions | State the deduplication rule |
| Update | New run and differences from the previous set | Separate newly indexed reports from new studies |
Limitations and unresolved questions
A documented search can still have important coverage or language limitations. The method should match the question; this article does not supply a complete search strategy for every autism review.
Implications for research and institutions
Use a stable version for each search export and keep queries alongside it. A source-based article should be labelled an explainer unless an actual review protocol and review methods were implemented.
Research question
What is the minimum useful search log?
Keep the source and platform, exact query, run date, filters, result count and export location. Add selection and deduplication records so another researcher can trace what happened next.
Verified source bibliography
- Carol Lefebvre; Julie Glanville; Simon Briscoe et al. (2025). Chapter 4: Searching for and selecting studies. Cochrane
- Page MJ; McKenzie JE; Bossuyt PM et al. (2021). The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews.. BMJ (Clinical research ed.) · DOI
- Wilkinson MD; Dumontier M; Aalbersberg IJ et al. (2016). The FAIR Guiding Principles for scientific data management and stewardship.. Scientific data · DOI
Methodological guidance is distinguished from empirical autism research. Links and relevant source content were checked on 2026-10-27. Citation is not endorsement or affiliation. Follow the source for its full scope, rights and limitations.