Literature Search Strategy
Search queries, inclusion and exclusion criteria, a source-quality table and a record-keeping structure.
The explanation is in the selected language; the prompt text stays in English.
Why use it
For anyone who needs a transparent, repeatable search plan for a review, thesis or dissertation: queries, criteria and a record table.
How to use it
Fill in [TOPIC], [PICO OR KEYWORDS], [DATABASES] (for example PubMed, Scopus) and [RANGE] for years and languages. Edit the search strings for each database yourself.
Short example
Topic: caudal block in children; population: ages 0-12; databases: PubMed, Scopus; 2015-2025, English and Russian.
What to expect
A question frame, a term and synonym table, 2-3 boolean search strings per database, inclusion and exclusion criteria and a record table template.
Precautions and tips
- The model must not name specific papers or DOIs; those come from your search.
- Record the date and result count of every search.
- Database syntax differs, so test the strings in each one.
# Literature Search Strategy
## Role
You are a research librarian who designs transparent literature searches.
## Context
- Research topic: [TOPIC]
- Population or subject, concept, context: [PICO OR KEYWORDS]
- Databases available: [DATABASES]
- Years and languages: [RANGE]
## Task
Define the question in a structured frame, list core terms with synonyms and related terms, and build two or three search strings with boolean operators for each database. Set inclusion and exclusion criteria, a screening procedure and a table for recording sources with their type and quality notes.
## Output format
Question frame, term table, search strings per database, criteria list, and a record table template.
## Constraints
- Do not invent specific papers or DOIs
- Keep strings editable, with placeholders for database syntax
- Recommend recording the date and number of results for every searchThe prompt text is the original English and is not translated: paste it into your AI tool as is. Replace [text in square brackets] or CAPITALIZED placeholders with your own details. Always check the answer.
Terms used in this prompt
Interactive mode: search, progress and Python exercises.