Recommendations for Reporting Cognitive Training Trials (RCTT): A Delphi consensus study

The absence of standardized reporting criteria in cognitive training research has led to difficulties in classification, assessment of effectiveness, reproducibility, comparability, and quality evaluation across studies. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive, consensus-based checklist for evaluating, reporting, and conducting cognitive training studies. A Delphi method was employed to achieve consensus among experts. A panel of 22 experts participated in three rounds of surveys, providing feedback and reaching agreement on essential items for the checklist. The final checklist items were categorized into four primary domains: Participants, Cognitive Training Protocol/Program, Cognitive Training Procedure, and Study Procedure. The expert panel reached consensus on key items to be included in the checklist. These items include demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, cultural characteristics, participant eligibility criteria, sample size, recruitment process, previous experience with cognitive training, medication details, baseline cognitive function, and various parameters of cognitive training protocols and procedures. The developed checklist provides a structured and thorough approach to reporting cognitive training studies. It aligns with existing guidelines such as CONSORT and enhances the clarity, transparency, and replicability of research. Future research should aim to validate and refine the checklist across diverse cognitive training studies and populations, ensuring its generalizability and effectiveness.