Types of Reviews

What are they?

(AKA Literature Reviews)

Narrative Reviews involve looking at literature across a specific topic and synthesizing what you have learned. You can either look at one specific database, or across multiple databases.

You aren’t expected to become a subject expert, but you should have a pretty good concept of the topic once the review is completed.

How long might it take to complete?

Typically takes less than a month.

Is a team required?

A team is not required for this type of review.

What are the protocols that are preferred or required?

There are no specific protocols required.

When would you use this type of review?

Narrative Reviews can be submitted on their own as an article, or can be a part of a more in-depth project, like a book chapter, thesis, or dissertation.

Is there an example?

Kuwabara AM, Tenforde AS, Finnoff JT, Fredericson M. Iron deficiency in athletes: a narrative review. PM R. 2022;14(5):620-642. doi:10.1002/pmrj.12779