Researching for your literature review: Step 1. Initial scoping search

A scoping search is a preliminary search with the purpose of determining suitability of the topic and identifying a gold set of relevant references. This is followed by an analysis of the key words used in the title and abstract.

Undertaking these tasks as Step 1 ensures that the search strategy developed in Step 2 will be as complete as possible.

Where to search:

A scoping search may consist of a search engine search (e.g. Google Scholar) and/or a search of a core database that you are familiar with (e.g. Medline).

Additional sources may be large interdisciplinary databases such as Scopus or Proquest central, or even an AI mapping tool.

How to do a scoping search:

Begin with a series of very targeted searches. These can include:

• Entering all relevant elements of the topic into a search engine
• Searching for your main keywords in the article title field of a database 
• Searching for review articles on similar topics to gain an overview of a facet of your own topic.

A gold set is a curated collection of highly relevant articles that you would expect to include in your review. (It may also be referred to as a ‘sample set’ or ‘seed papers’).

By utilising your scoping searches to find articles that answer your research question, you will have a strong foundation for compiling your search terms.

The gold set is also needed to test the strength of the search strategy that you will later develop. This testing is a hallmark of a rigorous and comprehensive search, and provides a tangible means of assessing whether you have any errors or omissions in your search strategy.

Use the tips above on where and how to search to locate a gold set.

Things to look for in your scoping search:

• Does your research question address a gap in the literature, i.e. has it already been answered? 
• Does your question seem specific and focused enough to be feasible i.e. are there too many results?

Document the following:

• The key terminology used in relation to each main concept
• A gold set of at least three relevant references that answer your research question and would be used in your review.