Searching, Selecting and Managing the best available evidence for research according to a defined, planned and consistent method.
(Dore L, Delaunois, I, 2017).
It is about adopting a six step approach to your research to Plan, Define, Identify, Search, Select, and Manage. This systematic approach to reviews should not be confused with undertaking Systematic Reviews which seek to collate evidence that fits pre-specified eligibility criteria in order to answer a specific research question. They aim to minimize bias by using explicit, systematic methods documented in advance with a protocol.
Chandler J, Cumpston M, Thomas J, Higgins JPT, Deeks JJ, Clarke MJ. Chapter I: Introduction. In: Higgins JPT, Thomas J, Chandler J, Cumpston M, Li T, Page MJ, Welch VA (editors). Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions version 6.2 (updated February 2021). Cochrane, 2021. Available from www.training.cochrane.org.