Meta-analysis

A meta-analysis is a statistical technique where researchers combine the results from multiple independent studies on the same topic to reach a stronger, more reliable conclusion than any single study could provide. Instead of relying on one experiment, scientists pool data from dozens or even hundreds of studies to see if a consistent pattern emerges, which helps them determine whether a finding is truly meaningful or just a lucky result. Think of it like asking many different research teams the same question and then combining their answers to get a clearer picture of the truth.