Evidence guide
How to Read a Scientific Study
Start with the question and methods, then decide whether the conclusion fits the design and results.
Read in a better order
Begin with the abstract for orientation, then methods, primary results, figures, limitations and disclosures. Return to the discussion last.
Translate the design
Identify subjects, assignment, comparison, duration, outcome and missing data. Ask what causal statement that design can support.
Check the headline against the numbers
Look for absolute risks, uncertainty intervals, subgroup caveats and whether the primary outcome—not a secondary result—drives the story.
A practical reading checklist
- What was the exact research question?
- Who or what was studied?
- What was compared?
- Do the authors' words exceed the design?