What do systematic reviews attempt to minimize through their structured approach?

Systematic reviews employ a structured and rigorous methodology to comprehensively collect, evaluate, and synthesize existing research on a particular topic. This structured approach is essential in minimizing subjectivity and bias. By adhering to predefined protocols, including explicit inclusion and exclusion criteria, systematic reviews strive to ensure that the selection of studies and the synthesis of data are conducted objectively. This helps in reducing personal biases that might influence the interpretation of results, thus yielding more reliable and valid conclusions based on the evidence available.

The focus on objectivity also involves thorough peer review and consideration of the quality of the studies included in the review, which further contributes to a balanced and unbiased outcome. Hence, the primary goal of a systematic review is to present findings that are as objective as possible, giving a clear and trustworthy picture of the research landscape surrounding the topic under investigation.