By ToolzHive · Updated
Define the question, population and outcome first. A reporting checklist helps describe a study; completion alone does not establish low risk of bias.
Reference table
| Design | Useful for | Limitation / reporting family |
|---|---|---|
| Randomized trial | Intervention effects with random assignment | Allocation, adherence, attrition; CONSORT |
| Cohort | Following exposure groups | Confounding and follow-up; STROBE |
| Case-control | Prior exposures by outcome status | Selection and recall bias; STROBE |
| Cross-sectional | Population at one time | Temporal order unclear; STROBE |
| Diagnostic accuracy | Test versus reference standard | Verification and spectrum bias; STARD |
| Systematic review | Predefined evidence synthesis | Search, selection and study bias; PRISMA |
| Qualitative interviews | Experiences and perspectives | Sampling and analysis transparency; COREQ |
Planning checklist
Prespecify inclusion criteria, recruitment, outcome definitions, missing-data handling and analysis. Match sample-size methods to the design and outcome.
Reporting and ethics
Find the appropriate current guideline through EQUATOR. Obtain the approvals and consent required for the study. A calculator cannot establish which requirements apply.
Try the related tools
- Sample Size Calculator — Sample sizes for prevalence studies, means, proportions, case-control, cohort studies and RCTs.