As the literature search is a fundamental part of a systematic review, it's important that the search strategy is of high quality. To ensure this, and to avoid errors, there are several options. One option is to involve an experienced librarian/ information specialist in the review project. It is recommended if a second person has a thorough look at the search strategy.
There is also a tool for validating search strategies called Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies (PRESS).
PRESS was originally published in 2008–2010, but was revised in 2015. The PRESS checklist was originally made for expert searchers, such as librarians, but can also be used by students and researchers when creating more extensive search strategies. The evidence and conclusions in PRESS are based on a comprehensive research project.
Karolinska Institutet University Library (2022). Systematic reviews [PRESS] : https://kib.ki.se/en/search-evaluate/systematic-reviews,
Translation of the research question
These vary based on search service
Database-specific
Free text
McGowan J, Sampson M, Salzwedel DM, Cogo E, Foerster V, Lefebvre C. (2016). PRESS Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies: 2015 Guideline Statement. J Clin Epidemiol. Jul;75:40–46
(2016). PRESS – Peer Review of Electronic Search Strategies: 2015 Guideline Explanation and Elaboration (PRESS E&E). Ottawa: CADTH.