The resources listed below are essential for authors, editors and referees involved in the Cochrane systematic review process at all stages - the protocol, the review and the update to the review.
A comprehensive array of resources can be found at Cochrane Training. Resources for Prognosis reviews can also be found on the Cochrane Prognosis Methods Group website. Resources for Diagnostic Test Accuracy reviews can also be found on the Cochrane Screening and Diagnostic Tests Methods Group website.
Archie (archie.cochrane.org) is Cochrane's Internet‐based server where your review(s) are stored and where you can read, print and compare current and past versions of your review.
Archie also contains the contact details for contributors to the Cochrane Collaboration.You need a user name & password to access ARCHIE and this is organised if your review proposal is registered.
Review Manager (RevMan)
RevMan 5 is the software you use to write and edit your review(s).You use RevMan for protocols and reviews. It allows you to prepare the text, build the tables showing the characteristics of studies and the comparisons in the review, and add study data. It can perform meta-analyses and present the results graphically. You'll need to download this program & install it on your computer.
Reporting results in CKT reviews
Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions
The Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions is the official guide that describes in detail the process of preparing and maintaining Cochrane systematic reviews on the effects of healthcare interventions. All authors should consult the Handbook for guidance on the methods used in Cochrane systematic reviews. The current version of the Handbook is 6.0 (updated July 2019). It is available in various formats (e.g. online & PDF).
Methodological Expectations for Cochrane Reviews (MECIR)
The Methodological Expectations of Cochrane Intervention Reviews (MECIR) are methodological standards to which all Cochrane Protocols, Reviews, and Updates are expected to adhere. They are divided into sections for the conduct of, and reporting the reviews of interventions. These expectations are intended for both internal and external audiences. They provide authors and users of the Cochrane Library with clear and transparent expectations of review conduct and reporting.
GradePro (Grade Profiler)
GRADEpro is the software used to create Summary of Findings (SoF) tables in Cochrane systematic reviews. Incorporating GRADE in Cochrane reviews is a guide with good practice examples developed in conjunction with members of the GRADE working group on how to bring GRADE methods and quality of evidence ratings into the text of Cochrane Reviews (updated 30/05/2014).
- Common Errors and Good Practice in Cochrane Intervention reviews
- An overview of the most common errors and points of good practice identified from reviews that have been screened (updated 30/05/2014).
- Cochrane Style Guide
- The Cochrane Style Guide is designed to help review authors to use a consistent style when writing their systematic review.
- The Cochrane Style Guide Basics
- Provides a three-page summary of the essentials of this style guide.
- Responsible Research Publication: International Standards for Authors