Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CBIC Practice Questions and Study Guide

The initial step in conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis is to clearly formulate a research question. This foundational element guides the entire process, helping to establish which specific aspects of the existing literature will be examined. A well-defined research question outlines the objectives of the review, specifies the population of interest, and sets parameters for the types of interventions or comparisons that will be included.

Having a focused research question ensures that subsequent steps, such as the development of methodology and the literature search, are directly aligned with the goals of the review. It serves as the framework for determining the criteria for study selection, the data to be extracted, and the analysis to be performed. By establishing the research question first, researchers can maintain clarity and direction throughout the systematic review and meta-analysis process.