CASP Checklist - Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) - Critical Appraisal Guidance

Sep 3, 2026

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CASP guidance for critically appraising Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) emphasizes avoiding assumptions when study methods cannot be determined. When a question cannot be answered, the “Can’t tell” response is used, and a high number of such responses signals that the findings may be less trustworthy. The document also explains CASP’s recommended Harvard author/date referencing approach for assignment writing, including in-text citations and a reference list. It further promotes CASP online training, outlining target learners and benefits such as affordable access, expert-led instruction, self-directed study, and CPD certification.

LanguageEnglish

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Pages6

Reading Time2 min

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CASP Checklist

Guidance on “Can’t tell” responses

Referencing recommendation (Harvard style)

CASP training and benefits

CASP Checklist: For Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs) During critical appraisal, never make assumptions about what the researchers have done. If it is not possible to tell, use the “Can’t tell” response box. If you can’t tell, at best it means the researchers have not been explicit or transparent, but at worst it could mean the researchers have not undertaken a particular task or process. Once you’ve finished the critical appraisal, if there are a large number of “Can’t tell” responses, consider whether the findings of the study are trustworthy and interpret the results with caution. Referencing recommendation: CASP recommends using the Harvard style referencing, which is an author/date method. Sources are cited within the body of your assignment by giving the name of the author(s) followed by the date of publication. All other details about the publication are given in the list of references or bibliography at the end. Example: Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (2024). CASP (insert name of checklist i.e. randomised controlled trials (RCTs) Checklist.) [online] Available at: insert URL. Accessed: insert date accessed. Creative Commons ©CASP this work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution – Non-Commercial- Share A like. To view a copy of this licence, visit HYPERLINK "https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/" \t "_blank" https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/ Need further training on evidence-based decision making? Our online training courses are helpful for healthcare educational researchers and any other learners who: INCLUDEPICTURE "https://casp-uk.net/images/icons/chev.svg" \* MERGEFORMATINET Need to critically appraise and stay abreast of the healthcare research literature as part of their clinical duties. Are considering carrying out research & developing their own research projects. Make decisions in their role, whether that be policy making or patient facing. Benefits of CASP Training: Affordable – courses start from as little as £6 Professional training – leading experts in critical appraisal training Self-directed study – complete each course in your own time 12 months access – revisit areas you aren’t sure of and revise CPD certification - after each completed module Scan the QR code below or visit HYPERLINK "https://casp-uk.net/critical-appraisal-online-training-courses/" https://casp-uk.net/critical-appraisal-online-training-courses/ for more information and to start learning more.

FAQs

What should be done when critical appraisal information is not clear for an RCT?

Use the “Can’t tell” response box whenever it is not possible to determine what the researchers have done. If you cannot tell, interpret results with caution, especially if “Can’t tell” responses are frequent.

Why does a large number of “Can’t tell” answers matter?

It can indicate that the study’s reporting is not explicit or that certain tasks were not undertaken. Consider whether the findings are trustworthy and interpret the results cautiously.

What referencing style does CASP recommend for assignments?

CASP recommends Harvard style referencing, using an author/date method with in-text citations (author(s) and publication date) and full publication details in the reference list or bibliography.

Sep 3, 2026

Upload by Eliana