What is the main utility of "meta-analysis" in research?

The main utility of "meta-analysis" in research is that it combines results from multiple studies to arrive at a broader conclusion about a particular topic or effect. This technique allows researchers to aggregate findings from various studies that may have different sample sizes, methodologies, or results. By synthesizing this information, meta-analysis can provide a more comprehensive and reliable estimate of the effects or relationships being studied. This is particularly valuable in fields where individual studies may yield conflicting results, as it helps clarify the overall trends and patterns.

Meta-analysis not only enhances the statistical power of the analysis but also helps identify factors that may influence the results across studies, allowing for a more nuanced understanding of the research question at hand. This collective approach enables researchers to make stronger evidence-based conclusions and recommendations, in contrast to relying on the results of a single study, which may be limited in scope or subject to specific biases.