Stage 2 purpose
Start the shared Stage 2 practice pack →
Stage 2 turns the Stage 1 search results into a documented set of eligible studies and a structured evidence base. Begin with the approved protocol draft, database exports, search log and backup copy of the original records.
Complete and save your review tasks in the Stage 2 guided workspace. Download blank files from Templates and Practice Files; these downloads are not browser worksheets.
Use the guided workspace for the review workflow
The Stage 2 worksheets provide step-by-step instructions for protocol checks, deduplication, screening, PRISMA counts, appraisal and extraction. Use this page for supporting references, practice files and downloadable templates.
Start the Stage 2 guided workspace →
Tool guides
Learn account setup and software features on the separate tool pages, then return to the worksheet to record verified outputs: Gemini Notebook, Zotero, Rayyan and optional Covidence.
Reporting and appraisal references
Use the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram guidance to report the selection process. PRISMA is a reporting guideline and does not replace the review protocol. Choose appraisal criteria that fit the review question and included study designs.
Hands-on practice files
The shared practice set uses 23 clearly labelled synthetic records so participants can practise deduplication, calibration, abstract screening and full-text decisions before using their own records. Open participant instructions.
Facilitator preparation
The answer key is facilitator-only and is distributed separately from the participant materials.
Downloadable templates
| Template | Use |
|---|---|
| Screening decision log | Screening decisions, conflicts and full-text exclusion reasons. |
| PRISMA count reconciliation | Check counts at each record/report selection step. |
| Quality appraisal matrix | Criteria, supporting evidence, judgement and rationale. |
| Data extraction matrix | Structured evidence mapped to the review questions. |
A deduplicated record set, transparent screening decisions, reconciled flow counts, documented appraisal, a piloted extraction matrix and synthesis notes linked to the review questions.