Key points at a glance
- Identify design first.
- Select the matching tool.
- Support judgments with evidence.
Identify design before choosing a tool
A cross-sectional survey, cohort study and qualitative interview study face different threats. JBI therefore provides design-specific appraisal tools. Do not choose a checklist merely because it produces an easy overall number.
Ask method-specific questions
Example: An article claims a study app improves grades but compares self-selected users with nonusers. Examine selection, baseline differences and grade measurement. Publication in a prestigious journal does not remove possible bias.
Record defensible judgments
For each item, note yes, no or unclear alongside a page reference and reason. Unclear reporting is not proof of poor conduct. Keep methodological quality separate from whether the population and outcome are relevant to your own question.
Use appraisal in the synthesis
Avoid ranking papers solely by an arbitrary score. Explain which findings need caution because of particular bias risks. For a systematic review, agree appraisal and exclusion rules with your supervisor before screening.
Final submission context
Formal details can feel like a separate writing task, but they matter just as much for a printed submission. Anything missing, misplaced or inconsistently formatted in the document will also appear in the bound copy.
Use this guide together with your cover page, table of contents, page numbers, source notes and appendices. Prepare the final PDF for printing and binding only after the complete file has been checked.
Practical check before PDF export
- Do headings, chapter structure and page numbers match?
- Are sources, figures and tables included completely?
- Are required elements such as declarations, appendices or the cover page included where required?
- Did you open and check the final PDF after exporting it?
Checklist
- Identified design.
- Selected matching checklist.
- Supported judgments.
- Weighted evidence carefully.
Common mistakes
- Using one tool for every design.
- Equating unclear with bad.
- Reporting a score without reasoning.
Prepare the finished thesis for submission
Once the content and university requirements are checked, review your PDF and the available printing and binding options.
Review printing optionsRelated content
Explore related guidance on thesis structure, sources, formatting and final submission.
Frequently asked questions
Does peer review guarantee quality?
No, inspect the study methods themselves.
Which JBI checklist applies?
The one matching the actual design.
Should I exclude every risky study?
Not automatically; follow your review question and predefined approach.