User Guide: How to Use ARCHE
Welcome to the ARCHE User Guide! This tool helps you appraise research articles. Follow these steps to get started.
Step 1: Open the App
Visit the main ARCHE page and select the article type (Experimental or Observational).
Step 2: Choose Study Design
Based on the type, select a design (e.g., RCT, Cohort). This loads the relevant appraisal questions.
Step 3: Answer Questions
Enter the article title and answer each question (Yes / No / Maybe) with optional comments. Hover over questions for guidance tips.
Step 4: Generate PDF
Once complete, click "Generate PDF Report" to download your appraisal summary.
Understanding the Evidence Strength Scoring System
ARCHE assigns a strength-of-evidence rating in the PDF output based on a transparent point system so users understand how each response affects the final score.
- Yes — full points (weight-dependent per question)
- Maybe / Partially / Can't Tell — half points (rounded up)
- No — 0 points
Higher scores reflect stronger methodological quality and lower risk of bias.
- 80% – 100%: Strong — high confidence in study quality.
- 60% – 79%: Moderate — some limitations present.
- 0% – 59%: Weak — major methodological issues.
This scoring is not a substitute for expert judgement. It serves as a structured guide to assess methodological standards.
Tips
- Use the progress bar to track your completion.
- For Systematic Reviews, complete the GRADE assessment at the end.
- If the app freezes, refresh the page or contact support.