====== Search Strategy Template ====== === 1. Identify Key Concepts === * Break down your PICO into main concepts: - Population (P) - Intervention (I) - Comparator (C) — optional - Outcome (O) — optional === 2. List Keywords and Synonyms === * For each concept, list keywords, synonyms, acronyms, and relevant subject headings (e.g., MeSH in PubMed). === 3. Use Boolean Operators === * Use **OR** to combine synonyms within each concept. * Use **AND** to combine different concepts. * Use **NOT** carefully to exclude irrelevant terms. === 4. Apply Truncation and Wildcards === * Use truncation symbols (e.g., * or $) to capture word variants. * Use wildcards for spelling variations. === 5. Adapt to Specific Databases === * Modify syntax for each database (e.g., PubMed, Embase, Cochrane). * Use controlled vocabulary terms where available (e.g., MeSH, Emtree). --- ====== Example Search Strategy for PubMed ====== **Research question:** _“Effectiveness of aspirin for preventing stroke in diabetic patients”_