How to Write a Scoping Review Protocol for Research Studies

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How to Write a Scoping Review Protocol for Research Studies

Introduction

A scoping review protocol is a detailed, pre-defined plan that outlines the objectives, methodology, and reporting structure of your review before you begin.
It ensures transparency, reduces the risk of bias, and provides a roadmap for consistent execution.

In many cases, researchers register their protocol in open repositories like Open Science Framework (OSF) or PROSPERO (although PROSPERO currently prioritizes systematic reviews, some scoping protocols are accepted).

1. Why You Need a Protocol

  • Clarity – Avoids scope creep during data collection.

  • Reproducibility – Others can replicate your process.

  • Accountability – Minimizes selective reporting and bias.

  • Credibility – Strengthens the trustworthiness of your findings.

2. Essential Components of a Scoping Review Protocol

a. Title and Authors

  • Use a clear, descriptive title (include “scoping review”).

  • List authors with affiliations and roles.

b. Background and Rationale

  • Explain why a scoping review is needed.

  • Summarize existing knowledge gaps.

  • Reference previous reviews (if any).

c. Objectives and Research Question

  • Clearly define the research question using the PCC framework:

    • P – Population

    • C – Concept

    • C – Context

Example: What are the barriers and facilitators (Concept) to implementing telehealth (Population) in rural healthcare settings (Context)?

d. Eligibility Criteria

  • Specify inclusion/exclusion parameters:

    • Types of studies

    • Date range

    • Languages

    • Study designs

e. Search Strategy

  • List databases (e.g., PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL).

  • Include keywords and Boolean operators.

  • Plan for grey literature searching.

f. Study Selection Process

  • Detail how studies will be screened:

    • Number of reviewers

    • Conflict resolution steps

    • Use of software (e.g., Covidence, Rayyan)

g. Data Extraction Plan

  • Outline data fields:

    • Study characteristics

    • Population details

    • Key findings

    • Definitions/frameworks used

h. Data Synthesis Approach

  • Describe how you will analyze data (descriptive statistics, thematic mapping, narrative summary).

i. Dissemination Plan

  • Specify where and how you will share results (peer-reviewed journal, conferences, reports).

3. Reporting Standards to Follow

Use the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines for both the protocol and the final review.

4. Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Overly broad research questions leading to unmanageable data.

  • Vague eligibility criteria causing inconsistent screening.

  • Skipping grey literature and missing important sources.

  • Not involving multiple reviewers for screening and extraction.

Conclusion

Writing a robust scoping review protocol is a critical first step in ensuring your study is methodologically sound, transparent, and reproducible.
By clearly outlining your objectives, methods, and analysis plan, you not only improve the quality of your review but also contribute to the integrity of the broader research ecosystem.

Published by oriaku