What Is PROSPERO?

Looking for the full method? Read the detailed guide: How to Register a Systematic Review on PROSPERO.

PROSPERO is an international database of prospectively registered systematic review protocols with health-related outcomes, hosted by the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination at the University of York. Registration records the review's planned methods publicly.

Example

Invented for teaching: A team registers its protocol before screening, receives a registration number and cites it in the abstract and methods of the final paper, noting any later amendments.

Common misunderstanding

Registration is not the same as peer review or approval of the protocol: it records the plan and checks that required information is present. Eligibility rules apply, so check the current guidance before applying.

Learn more

See How to Register a Systematic Review on PROSPERO.

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.