Data Extraction
Data extraction is the final phase of your systematic literature review. After studies pass full-text screening, your team captures structured information from each one using a custom form you design. ActiveSLR supports two extraction workflows depending on your project's screening type.
Extraction workflows
Single DE + QC
One extractor fills the data extraction form for each included study. After extraction is complete, a QC reviewer checks the work for accuracy. The QC reviewer can flag specific fields or entire studies for revision.
Use this when:
- You have a small team or limited reviewer availability
- Your extraction form is straightforward
- Speed is more important than independent verification
Double DE + Reconciliation
Two extractors independently complete the form for each study. A reconciler then reviews any fields where the two extractors recorded different values and makes the final decision.
Use this when:
- Your review protocol requires independent dual extraction
- Extraction fields are subjective or require clinical judgment
- You want the highest degree of reliability in your extracted data
The extraction workflow mirrors the screening type chosen when the project was created. Single-screening projects use Single DE + QC; double-screening projects use Double DE + Reconciliation.
Guides in this section
Form Builder
Design your extraction form with custom field types and organized sections.
Extracting Data
Use the side-by-side PDF and form view to extract data from included studies.
PDF Viewer & Annotations
Highlight text and add annotations while working through the extraction form.
Trial Linking
Group multiple study records under a single trial name for trial-level extraction.
Reconciliation
QC review for single-extraction projects and reconciliation for double-extraction projects.