What Is a PRISMA Flow Diagram?
Looking for the full method? Read the detailed guide: How to Create a PRISMA Flow Diagram.
A PRISMA flow diagram is a figure that shows the number of records identified, screened, assessed for eligibility and included in a systematic review, with reasons for exclusion. The PRISMA 2020 statement provides templates for new and updated reviews.
Example
Invented for teaching: 2,400 records identified; 2,050 after removing duplicates; 150 reports sought; 20 reports of 18 studies included. Each box carries the numbers from the screening log.
Common misunderstanding
The diagram is not decoration: its numbers must add up and match the text. It distinguishes records, reports and studies, which are not the same thing.
Learn more
See How to Create a PRISMA Flow Diagram. MRN's free PRISMA flow diagram generator checks the arithmetic as you build one.
References and further reading
- Page MJ, McKenzie JE, Bossuyt PM, et al. The PRISMA 2020 statement: an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews. BMJ. 2021;372:n71. doi:10.1136/bmj.n71
- PRISMA statement website (checklists, flow diagram templates, extensions). Link
Related reading
This page is general educational information about research methods. It is not medical, legal or regulatory advice; follow your institution's ethics board and your target journal's instructions.