Grey literature
Grey literature is as equally valuable as published studies, however it can be complicated and time consuming to search for.
Do I need to search Grey Literature?
Considerations:
Grey literature is particularly important for searching for new and emerging literature. It reduces the impact of publication bias.
Types of grey literature and places to search are led by the research question. eg RCTs can be found in theses and trial registries. Policy documents on government websites.
Where to search
Considerations:
Knowing where to search for grey literature is led by your research question.
Start by taking a look at the key organisations in the field, key conferences etc.
How to search
Considerations:
Searching for grey literature can never be truly 'systematic'. Therefore it is important to fully document everything you do.
Check out this guide to searching Google advanced
Read this paper on Cochrane methods in practice (requires a library login)
Take a look a this case study on searching the web for systematic reviews
Read these case studies on searching grey literature for public health reviews
Watch this video from QUT
Watch this video by Yale Uni