A scoping review examines and synthesizes the extent, range, and nature of literature on a question to identify gaps in the literature and future research needs. While a scoping review follows a similar systematic process to a systematic review, it does not require a critical appraisal of findings.  This review may explore a broader question or questions with a narrative report of findings.¹

• You have a broad research question or multiple research questions
• The topic you want to explore has emerging evidence in a range of study designs
• You want to identify research gaps¹ or inform a systematic review

1. Arksey, H., & O’Malley, L. (2005). Scoping studies: towards a methodological framework. International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 8(1), 19–32. https://doi.org/10.1080/1364557032000119616