PICO(T) is an acronym that helps researchers and practitioners define aspects of a potential study or
investigation. It stands for:
P – Patient/population/problem.
I – Intervention.
C – Comparison (of potential interventions, typically). O – Outcome(s).
T – Time frame (if time frame is relevant).
Select an issue of interest an apply the PICO(T) process to define the question and research it.
Define the population, intervention, comparison, and outcome. In some cases, a time
frame is relevant and you should include that as well, when writing a question you can research related to your
issue of interest. After you define your question, research it, and organize your initial findings, select the two
sources of evidence that seem the most relevant to your question and analyze them in more depth.
Specifically, interpret each source’s specific findings and best practices related to your issues, as well explain
how the evidence would help you plan and make decisions related to your question.
If you need some structure to organize your initial thoughts and research, the PICOT Question and Research
Template document (accessible from the “Create PICO(T) Questions” page in the Capella library’s Evidence
Based Practice guide) might be helpful.