5W+1H pattern: A perspective of systematic mapping studies and a case study on cloud software testing

•Novices often find it difficult to kick off a mapping study or literature review.•A 5W+1H pattern is proposed to ease the difficulty of conducting literature surveys.•The 5W+1H pattern helps formulate initial research questions and structure reports.•A case study shows the applicability of the 5W+1H pattern and the lessons learned.•A three-year mapping study on cloud software testing research is presented.