Meta-Analysis
Definition
A meta-analysis statistically combines results from multiple studies addressing the same question to calculate an overall effect size.
Correct Scientific Usage
Meta-analyses increase precision by pooling data, but their conclusions depend on the quality and consistency of included studies.
Common Misunderstandings
Not all meta-analyses are equally valid. Quality of meta-analyses depends on the included studies; a meta-analysis of poor studies remains unreliable.
Why It Matters
When done well, meta-analyses provide one of the strongest forms of evidence available.
References
- Users' Guide to the Medical Literature, JAMA
- Meta-analysis and traditional systematic literature reviews—What, why, when, where, and how?, Psychology & Marketing, Meta-analysis and traditional systematic literature reviews—What, why, when, where, and how?