A search filter is a tool or feature that allows users to refine and narrow down search results by applying specific criteria or parameters. In systematic reviews it is used to both help refine a search strategy and help manage the number of references identified from the search.
Common Types of Search Filters used in systematic reviews are:
- Date Filters: limit results to a specific time range, such as articles published in the last week, month, year or decade.
- Population filters: focus the search on humans rather than animals.
- Category or Topic Filters: narrow down search results to specific categories or topics
- Study type filters: narrow down the search to specific study types. The most common and most reliable study type filter is for randomised controlled trials or RCTs.