Key concepts and reporting recommendations for mapping reviews: A scoping review of 68 guidance and methodological studies.

ABSTRACT: Mapping reviews (MRs) are crucial for identifying research gaps and enhancing evidence utilization. Despite their increasing use in health and social sciences, inconsistencies persist in both their conceptualization and reporting. This study aims to clarify the conceptual framework and gather reporting items from existing guidance and methodological studies. A comprehensive search was conducted across nine databases and 11 institutional websites, including documents up to January 2024. A total of 68 documents were included, addressing 24 MR terms and 55 definitions, with 39 documents discussing distinctions and overlaps among these terms. From the documents included, 28 reporting items were identified, covering all the steps of the process. Seven documents mentioned reporting on the title,

SUBMITTER: Li Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12631146 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature