Research documents
The paperwork you may see, explained
Studies often hand volunteers several documents. Here is what each one is and what to look for.
Informed consent form
The main document describing the study, its procedures, risks, possible benefits, and your rights.
Look for
- Study purpose and length
- What you will be asked to do
- Who to contact with questions
Key information summary
A short section at the start of many consent forms highlighting the most important points.
Look for
- Main reasons you may or may not want to join
- Time commitment
- Most important risks
Privacy authorization
A document explaining how your personal information may be used and shared for the study.
Look for
- Who can access your records
- How long the authorization lasts
- How to cancel it
Study schedule or visit calendar
An outline of visits, calls, or tasks over the course of the study.
Look for
- Number and length of visits
- Remote or in-person activities
- Flexibility for rescheduling
Withdrawal information
A section describing how to leave a study and what happens afterward.
Look for
- Who to notify
- What happens to collected data
- Any follow-up steps