Data extraction
Data extraction overview
Once you have critically appraised your studies, you can begin to extract the data.
Move through the slide deck below to learn more about the data extraction stage. Alternatively, download the PDF document at the bottom of this box.
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- Data extractionThis document is a printable version of the slide deck above.
- Covidence: Data Extraction blog seriesFollow a Framework; Plan Ahead; Pilot the Template; Extract the Right Amount of Data; Communicate Regularly & Keep a Log for Reporting Checklists
Guidelines and standards
- Cochrane Handbook, part 2, chapter 5: Collecting data
This chapter details data collection and management requirements for authors conducting health science SRs. Section 5.5 specifically looks at the extraction process. The relevant MECIR are included.
Item 9 of the PRISMA 2020 Checklist addresses data extraction and is described further in the Explanation and Elaboration document.
Other guidelines and standards
- Overview of systematic reviewsSee the overview page (of this guide) for additional guidelines and standards.
- A practical guide: Data extraction for intervention systematic reviewsGuide from Covidence published in 2024. '...this guide can help streamline your data extraction processes, avoid unnecessary work, and deliver high-quality outcomes, regardless of which data extraction tool you are using'
Data extraction forms
View a real data extraction form (and the paper it was used for) below:
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Example: data extraction formA worksheet for data extraction.
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Does the ‘Otago Exercise Programme’ reduce mortality and falls in older adults?: a systematic review and meta-analysisThomas S, Halbert J, Mackintosh S 2010, Age and Ageing vol.39, pp. 681-687.