Understanding the evolutionary consequences of anthropogenic change is
imperative for estimating long-term species resilience. While
contemporary genomic data can provide us with important insights into
recent demographic histories, investigating past change using present
genomic data alone has limitations. In comparison, temporal genomics
studies, defined herein as those that incorporate time series genomic
data, leverage museum collections and repeated field sampling to
directly examine evolutionary change. As temporal genomics is applied to
more systems, species, and questions, best practices can be helpful
guides to make the most efficient use of limited resources. Here, we
conduct a systematic literature review to synthesize the effects of
temporal genomics methodology on our ability to detect evolutionary
changes. We focus on studies investigating recent change within the past
200 years, highlighting evolutionary processes that have occurred during
the past two centuries of accelerated anthropogenic pressure. We first
identify the most frequently studied taxa, systems, questions, and
drivers, before highlighting overlooked areas where further temporal
genomic studies may be particularly enlightening. Then, we provide
guidelines for future study and sample designs while identifying key
considerations that may influence statistical and analytical power. Our
aim is to provide recommendations to a broad array of researchers
interested in using temporal genomics in their work.