Most researchers waste months on a systematic review
(when a rapid review would have been good enough.)
Two review types. Same question.
Completely different amount of work.
According to this paper, 14 literature review types exist.
If you get started, focus on 2 main types:
Run a systematic review when youβre shaping guidelines.
Use a rapid review when leadership wants an answer this quarter.
Systematic reviews:
β’ Multi-database + grey literature search, no date limits
β’ Typically used for guidelines or high-stakes decisions
β’ Dual screening + full critical appraisal, validated tools
β’ In-depth narrative synthesis to explain heterogeneity
β’ Detailed evidence tables, if possible, meta-analysis
β’ Formal, pre-registered protocol (e.g. PROSPERO)
Rapid reviews:
β’ Typically used for time-sensitive service (1β6 months)
β’ Output a short decision brief, slide deck, or summary
β’ High-level narrative summary with minimal detail
β’ Focused search (fewer databases, tighter limits)
β’ Single-reviewer screening with spot checks
β’ Streamlined or internal-only protocol