Cochrane is introducing a word limit of 12,000 words in July of 2026. With an increasing emphasis on usability and sustainability, this webinar offered pragmatic, experience based guidance on preparing a Cochrane Review that is focused, readable, and fully compliant with MECIR standards without unnecessary length.
Drawing on common patterns seen in reviews, the session explored where word inflation typically occurs and how to address it through strategic planning, and disciplined writing and editing.
Participants learnt how to:-
- Prioritise content across sections,
- Avoid narrative duplication,
- Use tables and appendices effectively, and
- Make principled trade offs that preserve rigour while improving clarity.
The session was aimed at authors, editors, and methodologists seeking practical tools to help write Cochrane Reviews. It was delivered in June 2026 and below you will find the recording with the accompanying slides to download [PDF].
Presenter bio
Toby Lasserson is Deputy Editor in Chief of Cochrane. He oversees the publication of high priority and high quality content on the Cochrane Library. He has played a key role in strengthening methodological standards, supporting innovation in evidence synthesis, and aligning Cochrane Reviews with current and emerging global priorities such as planetary health and multiple chronic conditions as part of Cochrane's Scientific Strategy. Throughout his career at Cochrane, he has focused on improving the usability, transparency, and impact of systematic reviews for decision makers.
