Your complete guide to Systematic Reviews, Meta-Analysis & publishing in Q1 journals. Includes checklists, templates, and a step-by-step roadmap.
Evidence. Innovation. Impact.
Edition 2026 | utkarshresearchnetwork.in
Bridging health inequities through evidence, innovation & local action
Utkarsh Research Network (URN) is a public health research and innovation organization based in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. We empower researchers, clinicians, faculty, and students to produce high-quality evidence through expert mentorship, cutting-edge tools, and end-to-end research support.
Whether you are a first-time systematic reviewer, a PhD scholar crafting your thesis, or a senior faculty aiming for Q1 publications, URN provides the expertise and resources to elevate your research journey.
Step-by-step guide to conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis, from protocol to publication.
Ready-to-use 27-item checklist for transparent reporting of systematic reviews.
Professional template used by our experts, customizable for your review type.
12-step journey from research idea to published paper in a Q1/SCI indexed journal.
If any of these sound familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re in the right place.
You have a research idea, but the thought of choosing a topic, designing methodology, and navigating databases feels overwhelming. Nobody taught you how to actually DO research.
Your thesis deadline is approaching. Your guide is too busy. You’re drowning in papers but can’t synthesize them. The statistics make no sense. You feel paralyzed.
You wrote the manuscript, submitted to 3 journals, and got rejected every time. The reviewer comments feel confusing. You don’t know what’s wrong or how to fix it.
SPSS? R? Stata? Meta-analysis? Forest plots? Heterogeneity? These words make you anxious. You know stats are crucial but nobody explained them in simple language.
You’re doing it all alone. No research culture in your institution. No seniors to guide you. You watch others publish while you struggle in silence.
Most research support services charge lakhs. As a student or early-career faculty, you simply can’t afford it. You feel like quality help is only for the privileged few.
We built URN for YOU.
Every service, every training program, every resource at URN was created because we’ve seen these struggles firsthand. We’ve been there. And we made it our mission to ensure no researcher ever feels alone again.
For every struggle, we have a solution. Here’s how we turn your pain into publications.
Our experts help you choose a topic, design your study, and create a step-by-step plan. No more guessing — just a clear path from Day 1 to publication.
Whether it’s your literature review, data analysis, or manuscript — our team works alongside you to break through barriers fast. Average turnaround: 1-3 weeks.
We handle journal selection, manuscript polishing, reviewer responses, and resubmission. Our track record: 50+ publications in SCI/Scopus Q1 journals.
Our biostatisticians explain in plain language. We train you hands-on with SPSS, R, and Stata. You won’t just get results — you’ll understand them.
URN membership connects you with peers, mentors, and experts. Monthly webinars, forum discussions, and collaboration opportunities — you’ll never feel isolated again.
SRMA Masterclass starts at ₹99. Student membership is just ₹199/year. Consultations from ₹1,999. World-class support that doesn’t break the bank.
Still unsure? We offer a 100% Money-Back Guarantee.
If you’re not satisfied with any URN service, we’ll refund your money. No questions asked. That’s how confident we are in our quality. (See Chapter 11 for full details)
How to conduct a Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis from scratch
Use the PICO framework (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) for clinical reviews or PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome) for observational studies. A focused, answerable question is the foundation of a high-quality review.
Register on PROSPERO (International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) to establish your review plan before data extraction. This adds transparency, reduces bias, and prevents duplication of effort.
Search multiple databases: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase. Use Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT), MeSH terms, and wild cards. Document every search string for reproducibility.
Import results into reference managers (Endnote, Zotero). Remove duplicates. Perform title/abstract screening using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria, then full-text screening. Use tools like Covidence or Rayyan for efficiency.
Use a structured data extraction form (included in this kit!) to capture study characteristics, population, interventions, outcomes, and results. Two independent reviewers should extract data to minimize errors.
Risk assessment, statistical analysis, and manuscript writing
Use RoB 2.0 for randomized controlled trials or ROBINS-I for non-randomized studies. Tools like the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) work for observational studies. This evaluates the internal validity of included studies.
Combine effect sizes using random-effects or fixed-effects models in RevMan, R (metafor), or Stata. Generate forest plots showing individual and pooled estimates. Assess heterogeneity using I² statistic and Cochran's Q test. Create funnel plots to detect publication bias.
Use the GRADE framework (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations) to rate the certainty of evidence as High, Moderate, Low, or Very Low. This is required by Cochrane, WHO, and most top journals.
Structure your manuscript using IMRAD format (Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion). Include the PRISMA flow diagram, forest plots, summary of findings table, and GRADE assessment. Follow your target journal's author guidelines.
Ready-to-use checklist for transparent reporting of systematic reviews
| # | Section | Checklist Item | Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Title | Identify the report as a systematic review | ☐ |
| 2 | Abstract | Structured summary including background, objectives, data sources, eligibility criteria, participants, interventions, appraisal methods, results, limitations, conclusions, registration number | ☐ |
| 3 | Introduction | Rationale: Describe the rationale in the context of existing knowledge | ☐ |
| 4 | Introduction | Objectives: Provide PICO-structured statement of the questions | ☐ |
| 5 | Methods | Eligibility criteria: Specify inclusion/exclusion with rationale | ☐ |
| 6 | Methods | Information sources: Specify all databases searched with dates | ☐ |
| 7 | Methods | Search strategy: Present full electronic search for at least one database | ☐ |
| 8 | Methods | Selection process: Specify screening methods used | ☐ |
| 9 | Methods | Data collection process: Describe methods of data extraction | ☐ |
| 10 | Methods | Data items: List all variables for which data were sought | ☐ |
| 11 | Methods | Study risk of bias assessment: Specify methods used | ☐ |
| 12 | Methods | Effect measures: Specify effect measures used (RR, OR, MD) | ☐ |
| 13 | Methods | Synthesis methods: Describe meta-analysis methods if performed | ☐ |
| 14 | Methods | Reporting bias assessment: Describe methods for publication bias | ☐ |
| 15 | Methods | Certainty assessment: Describe methods for GRADE assessment | ☐ |
Continued on next page...
| # | Section | Checklist Item | Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Results | Study selection: Give numbers at each stage with PRISMA flow diagram | ☐ |
| 17 | Results | Study characteristics: Present characteristics of each study | ☐ |
| 18 | Results | Risk of bias in studies: Present results of assessment | ☐ |
| 19 | Results | Results of individual studies: Present data for all outcomes | ☐ |
| 20 | Results | Results of syntheses: Present results of each meta-analysis with forest plot | ☐ |
| 21 | Results | Reporting biases: Present funnel plot assessment of publication bias | ☐ |
| 22 | Results | Certainty of evidence: Present GRADE assessment for each outcome | ☐ |
| 23 | Discussion | Provide interpretation in context of other evidence | ☐ |
| 24 | Discussion | Discuss limitations at study and outcome level | ☐ |
| 25 | Other | Registration & protocol: Provide registration number and protocol link | ☐ |
| 26 | Other | Support: Describe funding sources and role of funder | ☐ |
| 27 | Other | Competing interests: Declare any competing interests of authors | ☐ |
Reference: Page MJ, McKenzie JE, Bossuyt PM, et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ 2021;372:n71.
Professional template used by our SRMA experts — customize for your review
| Column | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Study ID | First author + year of publication | Kumar 2024 |
| Study Design | RCT, cohort, cross-sectional, case-control | RCT |
| Country/Setting | Where the study was conducted | India, hospital |
| Population | Participant characteristics, sample size, age | n=200, adults |
| Intervention | Details of intervention/exposure | Yoga therapy |
| Comparator | Control group/comparison | Standard care |
| Outcome Measure | Primary and secondary outcomes | HbA1c, BMI |
| Results | Effect sizes, means, SDs, p-values | MD: -0.5, p=0.02 |
| Follow-up | Duration of follow-up period | 12 weeks |
| Risk of Bias | Overall RoB rating for the study | Low / Some / High |
| Notes | Additional observations, funding, conflicts | Industry funded |
From research idea to Q1 journal publication in 12 steps
Review existing literature to find unanswered questions. Check PROSPERO for ongoing reviews on your topic.
Week 1Structure your question using Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome. This defines your entire study.
Week 1Submit your review protocol for registration. This establishes priority and adds transparency.
Week 2-3Search PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Cochrane, and other databases. Document all search strategies.
Week 3-4Title/abstract screening followed by full-text review. Apply inclusion/exclusion criteria. Create PRISMA flow diagram.
Week 4-6Use your extraction template. Conduct Risk of Bias assessment using appropriate tools (RoB 2.0, NOS).
Week 6-8Continued on next page...
Statistical analysis, writing, submission, and publication
Pool data using RevMan or R. Generate forest plots, funnel plots, and sensitivity analyses.
Week 8-10Draft Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion (IMRAD). Include all PRISMA checklist items.
Week 10-12Choose a journal that matches your topic, scope, and audience. Check impact factor, acceptance rate, and indexing.
Week 12Reformat manuscript, references (Vancouver/APA), and figures per the journal's author instructions.
Week 12-13Submit with cover letter. Respond to peer reviewers with a detailed point-by-point rebuttal letter.
Week 13-20Celebrate! Share on ResearchGate, social media. Add to your CV. Plan your next publication.
Week 20+Unlock exclusive benefits, discounts, mentoring, and career growth opportunities
As a thank you for downloading this kit, you’re already part of our community! Take it further with a URN membership — access exclusive resources, get priority support, and accelerate your research career.
Get 10-25% off all URN services including SRMA, publication support, and thesis guidance.
Monthly expert-led sessions on trending research topics, not available to non-members.
Build your research career with expert-led, certificate-bearing programs
Learn systematic review and meta-analysis from scratch. Covers PROSPERO registration, database searching, PRISMA compliance, RevMan/R for meta-analysis, and manuscript writing. Perfect for beginners and intermediates.
Most Enrolled ProgramComprehensive research capacity building for educators. Covers research methodology, biostatistics (SPSS/R/STATA), systematic reviews, scientific writing, grant proposal writing, and hands-on software training.
Online / Offline / HybridResearch skills for postgraduates and PhD scholars. Covers research methodology, literature searching, biostatistics basics, thesis writing, plagiarism awareness, and viva preparation.
Online / Offline / HybridPractical statistics for health research. Hands-on SPSS/R/STATA training, choosing the right statistical test, data visualization, sample size calculation, and multivariate analysis.
Online / Offline / HybridFrom manuscript to published paper. Covers IMRAD structure, journal selection, manuscript preparation, cover letters, reviewer responses, publication ethics, and hands-on abstract writing.
Online / Offline / HybridGet recognized for your achievements. Earn rewards. Build your research profile.
At URN, we believe your hard work deserves recognition. Our rewards and recognition system motivates you to keep growing as a researcher. Complete courses, attend workshops, publish papers, and earn badges that showcase your expertise on your member profile.
Complete the SRMA Masterclass and earn your Certified Systematic Reviewer badge
Complete the Biostatistics Workshop and demonstrate data analysis proficiency
Publish your first paper with URN support and earn recognition in our community
Attend 3+ consecutive training programs or webinars to earn this dedication badge
Help fellow researchers in the community forum and get recognized as a mentor
Complete 5+ services or publish 3+ papers to earn the ultimate champion badge
We don’t just guide you — we publish with you
Publishing in high-impact journals is the ultimate goal for every researcher. URN provides comprehensive publication support that takes you from manuscript to published paper. Our team has helped produce 50+ publications with 1,850+ citations in Q1/Q2 SCI and Scopus indexed journals.
| Service | What’s Included | Starting From |
|---|---|---|
| Q1/SCI Journal Publication | Journal selection, manuscript writing, stats, formatting, submission, reviewer response, resubmission (up to 2 journals) | ₹49,999 |
| Systematic Review & Meta-Analysis | PROSPERO, database search, PRISMA compliance, RoB, meta-analysis, manuscript draft | ₹29,999 |
| Statistical & Data Analysis | Study design, sample size, SPSS/R/Stata analysis, APA tables & figures, interpretation report | ₹9,999 |
| Thesis & Dissertation | Topic selection, literature review, methodology, ethics application, analysis, writing guidance | ₹14,999 |
| Manuscript Editing | Language editing, scientific accuracy, plagiarism check (Turnitin), journal formatting | ₹4,999 |
| Grant & Proposal Writing | ICMR/DST/WHO format, budget justification, ethics drafting, review cycles | ₹7,999 |
| 1-on-1 Consultation | 60-min session: topic, methodology, stats selection, publication strategy | ₹1,999 |
Stop doing repetitive tasks manually — let technology do the heavy lifting
Whether you’re a researcher drowning in data, a faculty member building reports, or a business owner needing a website — our Automation & Technology division has you covered. No coding knowledge needed. We build it for you.
Save hours every week. Focus on what matters.
Whether it’s automating your literature review, building a Power BI dashboard, or designing your institutional website — our tech team handles it end-to-end. No coding knowledge required.
Our promise to you — backed by trust, transparency, and a full money-back guarantee
PhD-qualified biostatisticians, epidemiologists & medical writers with 10+ years experience
Not just deliverables — we teach you. You’ll understand every analysis, every decision
We don’t stop until you’re satisfied. Free revisions on all services until you’re happy
Quality management certified. Every project follows standardized, audited processes
We follow Cochrane, PRISMA, GRADE — the gold standards in evidence synthesis
Your success is our success. 97% satisfaction rate because we treat every project like our own
We stand behind every service we offer. If you’re not completely satisfied with the quality of our work, we’ll refund your full payment. No fine print. No hassle. No questions asked.
Applies to all URN services. Refund request must be made within 7 days of final delivery. Training program refunds available before the first session. See utkarshresearchnetwork.in/refund.php for full policy.
That last number says it all. We’ve never had a refund request — because we deliver. But the guarantee is there so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Ready to transform your research career?
Start with a free consultation or join for just ₹199/year. Remember — if you’re not happy, you get your money back. The only risk is not trying.
Everything you need at a glance — save this page!
| Book a Service | utkarshresearchnetwork.in/book-service.php |
| SRMA Masterclass | utkarshresearchnetwork.in/srma-training.php |
| Become a Member | utkarshresearchnetwork.in/member-login.php |
| About Us | utkarshresearchnetwork.in/about.php |
| Blog & Resources | utkarshresearchnetwork.in/blog.php |
| WhatsApp (Quick Chat) | wa.me/918637221386 |
Monday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (IST) | Sunday: By appointment
Your research journey starts here. Whether you need a free consultation, want to join our community, or are ready to publish in a Q1 journal — URN is with you every step of the way.
Join 2,500+ researchers who trust Utkarsh Research Network for systematic reviews, publication support, and career growth.
Evidence. Innovation. Impact.
© 2026 Utkarsh Research Network. All rights reserved.
B-174, Dream Villa, Pada Sahi, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751023, India