Starting a new research project without a reporting guideline can feel daunting – a bit like driving without Google Maps. You may have a vague sense of where to go and what you need to do, but the details and street names are a bit hazy.
Thankfully, numerous "roadmaps" for health research studies exist. The EQUATOR Network has helpfully gathered these reporting guidelines all in one convenient location and includes reporting guidelines for case reports (CARE), quality improvement studies (SRQR), observational studies (STROBE), randomized controlled trials (CONSORT), and systematic reviews (PRISMA), among others.
The EQUATOR (Enhancing the QUAlity and Transparency Of health Research) Network is an international initiative that seeks to improve the reliability and value of published health research literature by promoting transparent and accurate reporting and wider use of robust reporting guidelines. They also have toolkits which provide practical help and resources to support you in writing research, selecting the appropriate reporting guideline, peer reviewing research, and more.