One approach to examining the findings of multiple studies is descriptive. This descriptive review of the research on increasing the response rates to mail surveys is based on studies also subjected to a meta-analysis. An initial narrative review identified the studies to be used in both analyses, and results will allow the possibility of comparing results from different research approaches. Independent variables were listed for each study, and the studies were classified and grouped into tables. Review of these tables indicated that some variables produced consistent results, others, mixed results, and others were not extensively studied. Incentives enhanced response rates, but the necessary amount and type were not determined. Enclosed incentives were preferable to those only promised or offered. Advance and followup contacts increased response rates, and university and familiar sponsors tended to produce better responses than marketing firms or those that did not identify sponsoring organization. The effects of personalization and questionnaire format appeared too complex to state simply, with mixed results being found for a number of survey aspects. This descriptive type of review offers insight into the true status of the research. (Contains 21 tables.) (SLD)