Map each conclusion to its outcome and certainty rating, then rewrite the wording with neutral verbs so the claim matches the evidence. GRADE rates certainty at the outcome level using explicit criteria, so the mapping step keeps each conclusion tied to the outcome it actually describes.
Build the alignment table
- List every conclusion sentence in the manuscript, review, or grant, and record the outcome it refers to. Expected result: each conclusion has one named outcome, and any sentence covering several outcomes is split.
- Add the certainty rating for that outcome from your GRADE assessment, using the Summary of Findings table where one exists. Expected result: every conclusion row carries a rating, and rows without a rating are flagged for assessment before rewriting.
- Record the effect direction and the confidence interval alongside the rating. Cochrane guidance on interpreting results treats confidence intervals, exact P values, and absolute and relative effects as the basis for responsible conclusions. Expected result: the table shows whether the interval is compatible with benefit, harm, or no important difference.
- Rewrite the conclusion text so its verb matches the rating and the interval. Expected result: a revised sentence that a co-author can compare against the original.
- Add a change note stating what was altered and why, then circulate the table for co-author sign-off. Expected result: a documented record of each wording change and its evidence basis.
Test wording with a neutral-verb checklist
Read each revised sentence against these checks and revise where a check fails:
- The verb describes what the evidence shows: "was associated with," "reduced," "did not change," or "remained uncertain."
- The sentence names the outcome and population it covers.
- Certainty language matches the rating, so a low-certainty outcome is not written as a firm finding.
- The interval is reflected in the claim, including when it spans no important difference.
- Applicability and indirectness are stated when they limit the conclusion.
Cochrane's interpretation guidance covers applicability, indirectness, and certainty as parts of responsible review conclusions, so these checks belong in the same pass as the verb review.
Example row
| Conclusion | Outcome | Certainty | Revised text | Change note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treatment improves recovery | Recovery at follow-up | Low | Treatment may improve recovery; the confidence interval includes little effect | Verb softened to "may improve"; interval added |
The example shows the table's structure. Fill each cell from your own assessment and results.
Sign-off
Send the completed table with the revised conclusion text and change notes to co-authors. Ask each co-author to confirm the outcome mapping and the certainty rating, since those two cells drive the wording.