Search Strategy Template

1. Identify Key Concepts

Break down your PICO into main concepts:
1. Population (P)
2. Intervention (I)
3. Comparator (C) — optional
4. 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).

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Example Search Strategy for PubMed

Research question: _“Effectiveness of aspirin for preventing stroke in diabetic patients”_