Systematic reviews are just one type of evidence synthesis. Not all research questions are well-suited for systematic reviews. The scope of the question, and time and/or resource constraints are key factors in choosing a review methodology type. Use articles listed here or the What Type of Review Is Right for You? decision tree below for information on what other methodologies might be a better fit for you project. 

• Grant MJ, Booth A. A typology of reviews: an analysis of 14 review types and associated methodologies. Health Info Libr J. 2009 Jun;26(2):91-108. Defines 14 types of reviews and provides a helpful summary table on pp. 94-95.
• Sutton A, Clowes M, Preston L, Booth A. Meeting the review family: exploring review types and associated information retrieval requirements. Health Info Libr J. 2019;36(3):202–222. doi:10.1111/hir.12276
• Munn Z, Peters MDJ, Stern C, Tufanaru C, McArthur A, Aromataris E. Systematic review or scoping review? Guidance for authors when choosing between a systematic or scoping review approach. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2018;18(1):143. doi:10.1186/s12874-018-0611-x

"What Type of Review is Right for You?" by Cornell University Library is licensed under CC BY 4.0

Parts of this guide are adapted from "Systematic Reviews" by Taubman Health Sciences Library, University of Michigan, used under CC BY 4.0.