BMJ  2008;336:1381 (14 June), doi:10.1136/bmj.a186

Views & Reviews

Medical Classics

How to Read a Paper: The Basics of Evidence-Based Medicine

Now in its third edition, this respected book guides the reader through medical research and the jungle of jargon it comprises. The subject matter is divided into types of research, literature searches, presenting and analysing data, and publication and appraisal of research. Its definitions are superb, and it clearly delineates between commonly confused topics such as reliability and validity, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and protocol and guidelines.

In the 12 years since the book’s inception evidence based medicine has evolved from illegitimacy to prodigy, thanks to champions such as David Sackett, Brian Haines, and Greenhalgh herself. They encourage clinicians to formulate the right question with three specific areas in mind. For example, Mr Smith is a 35 year old, normally fit and well professional golfer with acute medial epicondylitis (the "who") who wishes to know whether rest, physiotherapy, or ultrasonography (the "which") will most quickly get him playing competitive golf . . . [Full text of this article]

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