PRISMA · PRISMA FLOWCHART

PRISMA Flow Diagram Examples

PRISMA flow diagrams are the standard way to report study selection in systematic reviews and meta-analyses. They show the number of records identified, screened, assessed for eligibility, and included, along with reasons for exclusion. Whether you’re conducting a Cochrane review, an updated analysis, or a qualitative synthesis, a clear PRISMA diagram helps readers understand your methods.

4 EXAMPLES· UPDATED 2026-06-27
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ABOUT

About these examples.

This page brings together real PRISMA flow diagram examples for different review types. Use them for inspiration or jump straight to our free PRISMA diagram generator to build your own. No design skills required—just enter your numbers and your diagram is ready to download.

HOW TO

Make one yourself.

  1. 1

    Open the PRISMA diagram generator

    Start with a blank PRISMA 2020 template from the tool dashboard, pre-built with the standard four-phase structure.

  2. 2

    Enter your study counts

    Input the number of records from each database, after duplicate removal, full-text screening, and final inclusion. Add reasons for exclusion in the right-hand boxes.

  3. 3

    Customize labels and styles

    Adjust phase headings, font sizes, box colors, and connector arrows to match your paper’s style or journal requirements.

  4. 4

    Export or share your diagram

    Download as a high-resolution PNG, SVG, or PDF, or copy the diagram code to embed it in your manuscript or appendix.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is a PRISMA flow diagram?01
A PRISMA flow diagram is a standardized graphical representation of the identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and final inclusion of studies in a systematic review. It follows the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and ensures transparent reporting.
How do I create a PRISMA flow diagram?02
You can create one manually using drawing software or use a dedicated generator like ChatDiagram’s PRISMA tool. Simply input your study counts, and the diagram updates automatically. Our tool follows the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram template.
Can I update my PRISMA flow diagram after creating it?03
Yes, if you use an editable template (like our generator), you can reopen the diagram and modify the numbers, labels, or styling at any time without starting from scratch.
Is the PRISMA flow diagram generator free?04
Absolutely — ChatDiagram’s PRISMA flow diagram maker is completely free, with no registration required. You can create unlimited diagrams and export them without watermarks.
What’s the difference between PRISMA 2009 and PRISMA 2020 flow diagrams?05
The PRISMA 2020 flow diagram includes more detail, such as the number of records identified from each database and the number of records before and after duplicate removal. It also separates the 'screening' and 'reports sought for retrieval' phases. Our generator uses the latest 2020 template.
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