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Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples

Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples

Published on June 20, 2018 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on May 31, 2023.

When you do research, you have to gather information and evidence from a variety of sources.

Primary sources provide raw information and first-hand evidence. Examples include interview transcripts, statistical data, and works of art. Primary research gives you direct access to the subject of your research.

Secondary sources provide second-hand information and commentary from other researchers. Examples include journal articles, reviews, and academic books . Thus, secondary research describes, interprets, or synthesizes primary sources.

Primary sources are more credible as evidence, but good research uses both primary and secondary sources.

What is a primary source, what is a secondary source, primary and secondary source examples, how to tell if a source is primary or secondary, primary vs secondary sources: which is better, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about primary and secondary sources.

A primary source is anything that gives you direct evidence about the people, events, or phenomena that you are researching. Primary sources will usually be the main objects of your analysis.

If you are researching the past, you cannot directly access it yourself, so you need primary sources that were produced at the time by participants or witnesses (e.g. letters, photographs, newspapers ).

If you are researching something current, your primary sources can either be qualitative or quantitative data that you collect yourself (e.g. through interviews , surveys , experiments ) or sources produced by people directly involved in the topic (e.g. official documents or media texts).

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A secondary source is anything that describes, interprets, evaluates, or analyzes information from primary sources. Common examples include:

Books , articles and documentaries that synthesize information on a topic
Synopses and descriptions of artistic works
Encyclopedias and textbooks that summarize information and ideas
Reviews and essays that evaluate or interpret something

When you cite a secondary source, it’s usually not to analyze it directly. Instead, you’ll probably test its arguments against new evidence or use its ideas to help formulate your own.

Examples of sources that can be primary or secondary

A secondary source can become a primary source depending on your research question . If the person, context, or technique that produced the source is the main focus of your research, it becomes a primary source.

Documentaries

If you are researching the causes of World War II, a recent documentary about the war is a secondary source . But if you are researching the filmmaking techniques used in historical documentaries, the documentary is a primary source .

Reviews and essays

If your paper is about the novels of Toni Morrison, a magazine review of one of her novels is a secondary source . But if your paper is about the critical reception of Toni Morrison’s work, the review is a primary source .

Newspaper articles

If your aim is to analyze the government’s economic policy, a newspaper article about a new policy is a secondary source . But if your aim is to analyze media coverage of economic issues, the newspaper article is a primary source .

To determine if something can be used as a primary or secondary source in your research, there are some simple questions you can ask yourself:

Does this source come from someone directly involved in the events I’m studying (primary) or from another researcher (secondary)?
Am I interested in evaluating the source itself (primary) or only using it for background information (secondary)?
Does the source provide original information (primary) or does it comment upon information from other sources (secondary)?

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Most research uses both primary and secondary sources. They complement each other to help you build a convincing argument. Primary sources are more credible as evidence, but secondary sources show how your work relates to existing research. Tertiary sources are often used in the first, exploratory stage of research.

What do you use primary sources for?

Primary sources are the foundation of original research. They allow you to:

Make new discoveries
Provide credible evidence for your arguments
Give authoritative information about your topic

If you don’t use any primary sources, your research may be considered unoriginal or unreliable.

What do you use secondary sources for?

Secondary sources are good for gaining a full overview of your topic and understanding how other researchers have approached it. They often synthesize a large number of primary sources that would be difficult and time-consuming to gather by yourself. They allow you to:

Gain background information on the topic
Support or contrast your arguments with other researchers’ ideas
Gather information from primary sources that you can’t access directly (e.g. private letters or physical documents located elsewhere)

When you conduct a literature review or meta analysis, you can consult secondary sources to gain a thorough overview of your topic. If you want to mention a paper or study that you find cited in a secondary source, seek out the original source and cite it directly.

Remember that all primary and secondary sources must be cited to avoid plagiarism . You can use Scribbr’s free citation generator to do so!

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Common examples of primary sources include interview transcripts , photographs, novels, paintings, films, historical documents, and official statistics.

Anything you directly analyze or use as first-hand evidence can be a primary source, including qualitative or quantitative data that you collected yourself.

Common examples of secondary sources include academic books, journal articles , reviews, essays , and textbooks.

Anything that summarizes, evaluates or interprets primary sources can be a secondary source. If a source gives you an overview of background information or presents another researcher’s ideas on your topic, it is probably a secondary source.

To determine if a source is primary or secondary, ask yourself:

Was the source created by someone directly involved in the events you’re studying (primary), or by another researcher (secondary)?
Does the source provide original information (primary), or does it summarize information from other sources (secondary)?
Are you directly analyzing the source itself (primary), or only using it for background information (secondary)?

Some types of source are nearly always primary: works of art and literature, raw statistical data, official documents and records, and personal communications (e.g. letters, interviews ). If you use one of these in your research, it is probably a primary source.

Primary sources are often considered the most credible in terms of providing evidence for your argument, as they give you direct evidence of what you are researching. However, it’s up to you to ensure the information they provide is reliable and accurate.

Always make sure to properly cite your sources to avoid plagiarism .

A fictional movie is usually a primary source. A documentary can be either primary or secondary depending on the context.

If you are directly analyzing some aspect of the movie itself – for example, the cinematography, narrative techniques, or social context – the movie is a primary source.

If you use the movie for background information or analysis about your topic – for example, to learn about a historical event or a scientific discovery – the movie is a secondary source.

Whether it’s primary or secondary, always properly cite the movie in the citation style you are using. Learn how to create an MLA movie citation or an APA movie citation .

Articles in newspapers and magazines can be primary or secondary depending on the focus of your research.

In historical studies, old articles are used as primary sources that give direct evidence about the time period. In social and communication studies, articles are used as primary sources to analyze language and social relations (for example, by conducting content analysis or discourse analysis ).

If you are not analyzing the article itself, but only using it for background information or facts about your topic, then the article is a secondary source.

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Streefkerk, R. (2023, May 31). Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved April 6, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/working-with-sources/primary-and-secondary-sources/

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Finding Sources

Primary and secondary sources.

Knowing the difference between primary and secondary sources will help you determine what types of sources you may need to include in your research essay. In general, primary sources are original works (original historical documents, art works, interviews, etc.), while secondary sources contain others’ insights and writings about those primary works (scholar articles about historical documents, art works, interviews, etc.).

While many scholarly sources are secondary sources, you will sometimes be asked to find primary sources in your research. For this reason, you should understand the differences between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources.

Primary sources allow researchers to get as close as possible to original ideas, events, and empirical research as possible. Such sources may include creative works, first hand or contemporary accounts of events, and the publication of the results of empirical observations or research. These include diaries, interviews, speeches, photographs, etc.
Secondary sources analyze, review, or summarize information in primary resources or other secondary resources. Even sources presenting facts or descriptions about events are secondary unless they are based on direct participation or observation. These include biographies, journal articles, books, and dissertations.
Tertiary sources provide overviews of topics by synthesizing information gathered from other resources. Tertiary resources often provide data in a convenient form or provide information with context by which to interpret it. These are often grouped together with secondary sources. They include encyclopedias and dictionaries.

Analyze your topic/working thesis to determine the types of sources that can help with support. For example, if your topic deals with Van Gogh’s use of pale green and what it connotes in his later paintings, you will need to couple evidence from primary sources (images of the paintings themselves) with secondary sources (other scholars’ views, discussions, and logical arguments about the same topic). If your working thesis deals with the benefits of regular exercise for older adults in their 70s-90s, you may couple evidence from primary sources (uninterpreted data from research studies, interviews with older adults or experts in the field) with secondary sources (interpretations of research studies). In some cases, you may find that your research is mostly from secondary sources and that’s fine, depending on your topic and working thesis. Just make sure to consider, consciously, the types of sources that can best be used to support your own ideas.

The following video provides a clear overview of primary and secondary sources.

Primary and Secondary Sources. Revision and adaptation of the page What Are Scholarly Articles? at https://courses.lumenlearning.com/wm-englishcomposition1/chapter/text-intermediate-research-strategies/which is a revision and adaptation of the sources listed below. Authored by : Susan Oaks. Provided by : Empire State College, SUNY OER Services. Project : College Writing. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
What Are Scholarly Articles?. Provided by : Lumen Learning. Project : English Composition I. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Primary, secondary, and tertiary sources. Provided by : Virginia Tech University Libraries. Located at : http://www.lib.vt.edu/help/research/primary-secondary-tertiary.html . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Secondary Sources in their Natural Habitat. Authored by : Amy Guptill. Provided by : SUNY. Located at : http://pressbooks.opensuny.org/writing-in-college-from-competence-to-excellence/chapter/4/ . Project : Writing in College. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Walk, Talk, Cook, Eat: A Guide to Using Sources. Authored by : Cynthia R. Haller. Provided by : Saylor. Located at : . Project : Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing Vol. 2. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
Scholarly Sources. Provided by : Boundless. Located at : https://www.boundless.com/writing/textbooks/boundless-writing-textbook/the-research-process-2/understanding-the-academic-context-of-your-topic-261/understanding-the-academic-context-of-your-topic-34-1667 . Project : Boundless Writing. License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
image of open book. Authored by : Hermann. Provided by : Pixabay. Located at : https://pixabay.com/en/book-open-pages-library-books-408302 . License : CC0: No Rights Reserved
video Understanding Primary & Secondary Sources. Provided by : Imagine Easy Solutions. Located at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmno-Yfetd8 . License : Other . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

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Working with sources
Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples

Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples

Published on 4 September 2022 by Raimo Streefkerk . Revised on 15 May 2023.

When you do research, you have to gather information and evidence from a variety of sources.

Primary sources provide raw information and first-hand evidence. Examples include interview transcripts, statistical data, and works of art. A primary source gives you direct access to the subject of your research.

Secondary sources provide second-hand information and commentary from other researchers. Examples include journal articles, reviews, and academic books . A secondary source describes, interprets, or synthesises primary sources.

Primary sources are more credible as evidence, but good research uses both primary and secondary sources.

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What is a primary source, what is a secondary source, primary and secondary source examples, how to tell if a source is primary or secondary, primary vs secondary sources: which is better, frequently asked questions about primary and secondary sources.

A primary source is anything that gives you direct evidence about the people, events, or phenomena that you are researching. Primary sources will usually be the main objects of your analysis.

If you are researching something current, your primary sources can either be qualitative or quantitative data that you collect yourself (e.g. through interviews, surveys, experiments) or sources produced by people directly involved in the topic (e.g. official documents or media texts).

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A secondary source is anything that describes, interprets, evaluates, or analyses information from primary sources. Common examples include:

Books , articles and documentaries that synthesise information on a topic
Synopses and descriptions of artistic works
Encyclopaedias and textbooks that summarize information and ideas
Reviews and essays that evaluate or interpret something

When you cite a secondary source, it’s usually not to analyse it directly. Instead, you’ll probably test its arguments against new evidence or use its ideas to help formulate your own.

Examples of sources that can be primary or secondary

To determine if something can be used as a primary or secondary source in your research, there are some simple questions you can ask yourself:

Does this source come from someone directly involved in the events I’m studying (primary) or from another researcher (secondary)?
Am I interested in analysing the source itself (primary) or only using it for background information (secondary)?
Does the source provide original information (primary) or does it comment upon information from other sources (secondary)?

What do you use primary sources for?

Primary sources are the foundation of original research. They allow you to:

Make new discoveries
Provide credible evidence for your arguments
Give authoritative information about your topic

If you don’t use any primary sources, your research may be considered unoriginal or unreliable.

What do you use secondary sources for?

Secondary sources are good for gaining a full overview of your topic and understanding how other researchers have approached it. They often synthesise a large number of primary sources that would be difficult and time-consuming to gather by yourself. They allow you to:

Gain background information on the topic
Support or contrast your arguments with other researchers’ ideas
Gather information from primary sources that you can’t access directly (e.g. private letters or physical documents located elsewhere)

When you conduct a literature review , you can consult secondary sources to gain a thorough overview of your topic. If you want to mention a paper or study that you find cited in a secondary source, seek out the original source and cite it directly.

Remember that all primary and secondary sources must be cited to avoid plagiarism . You can use Scribbr’s free citation generator to do so!

Common examples of primary sources include interview transcripts , photographs, novels, paintings, films, historical documents, and official statistics.

Anything you directly analyze or use as first-hand evidence can be a primary source, including qualitative or quantitative data that you collected yourself.

Common examples of secondary sources include academic books, journal articles , reviews, essays , and textbooks.

To determine if a source is primary or secondary, ask yourself:

Was the source created by someone directly involved in the events you’re studying (primary), or by another researcher (secondary)?
Does the source provide original information (primary), or does it summarize information from other sources (secondary)?
Are you directly analyzing the source itself (primary), or only using it for background information (secondary)?

Some types of sources are nearly always primary: works of art and literature, raw statistical data, official documents and records, and personal communications (e.g. letters, interviews ). If you use one of these in your research, it is probably a primary source.

Always make sure to properly cite your sources to avoid plagiarism .

A fictional movie is usually a primary source. A documentary can be either primary or secondary depending on the context.

If you are directly analysing some aspect of the movie itself – for example, the cinematography, narrative techniques, or social context – the movie is a primary source.

If you use the movie for background information or analysis about your topic – for example, to learn about a historical event or a scientific discovery – the movie is a secondary source.

Whether it’s primary or secondary, always properly cite the movie in the citation style you are using. Learn how to create an MLA movie citation or an APA movie citation .

Articles in newspapers and magazines can be primary or secondary depending on the focus of your research.

In historical studies, old articles are used as primary sources that give direct evidence about the time period. In social and communication studies, articles are used as primary sources to analyse language and social relations (for example, by conducting content analysis or discourse analysis ).

If you are not analysing the article itself, but only using it for background information or facts about your topic, then the article is a secondary source.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.

Streefkerk, R. (2023, May 15). Primary vs. Secondary Sources | Difference & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved 2 April 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/working-sources/primary-vs-secondary-sources/

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Distinguish between primary and secondary sources.

Further Information

Introduction

1. Introduction

Whether conducting research in the social sciences, humanities (especially history), arts, or natural sciences, the ability to distinguish between primary and secondary source material is essential. Basically, this distinction illustrates the degree to which the author of a piece is removed from the actual event being described, informing the reader as to whether the author is reporting impressions first hand (or is first to record these immediately following an event), or conveying the experiences and opinions of others—that is, second hand .

2. Primary sources

These are contemporary accounts of an event, written by someone who experienced or witnessed the event in question. These original documents (i.e., they are not about another document or account) are often diaries, letters, memoirs, journals, speeches, manuscripts, interviews and other such unpublished works. They may also include published pieces such as newspaper or magazine articles (as long as they are written soon after the fact and not as historical accounts), photographs, audio or video recordings, research reports in the natural or social sciences, or original literary or theatrical works.

3. Secondary sources

The function of these is to interpret primary sources , and so can be described as at least one step removed from the event or phenomenon under review. Secondary source materials, then, interpret, assign value to, conjecture upon, and draw conclusions about the events reported in primary sources. These are usually in the form of published works such as journal articles or books, but may include radio or television documentaries, or conference proceedings.

4. Defining questions

When evaluating primary or secondary sources, the following questions might be asked to help ascertain the nature and value of material being considered:

How does the author know these details (names, dates, times)? Was the author present at the event or soon on the scene?
Where does this information come from—personal experience, eyewitness accounts, or reports written by others?
Are the author's conclusions based on a single piece of evidence, or have many sources been taken into account (e.g., diary entries, along with third-party eyewitness accounts, impressions of contemporaries, newspaper accounts)?

Ultimately, all source materials of whatever type must be assessed critically and even the most scrupulous and thorough work is viewed through the eyes of the writer/interpreter. This must be taken into account when one is attempting to arrive at the 'truth' of an event.

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Primary and Secondary Sources: A Comprehensive Guide

Did you know that the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in 1947 revolutionized our understanding of ancient texts and biblical history? These ancient manuscripts, dating back over two millennia, were found in the caves of Qumran near the Dead Sea in Israel. Containing texts from the Hebrew Bible, as well as other Jewish writings, the Dead Sea Scrolls serve as a primary source of immense historical and religious significance. This remarkable find showcases the power of primary sources in shedding light on centuries-old events and beliefs, prompting us to explore what is the difference between primary and secondary sources in the pursuit of knowledge.

Primary and Secondary Sources: Short Summary

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating realm of historical research, uncovering the invaluable role played by primary sources—those direct witnesses to the events of the past—and their counterpart, secondary sources, which provide a deeper understanding and analysis of these primary materials. Whether you're a student, a researcher, or simply a curious soul seeking to unravel the mysteries of history, this guide will equip you with the tools and examples to navigate the realm of primary and secondary sources with confidence.

What is a Primary Source: Unraveling the Essence

A primary source refers to original, firsthand accounts or data that provide unique insights into a particular event or topic. These sources can include letters, diaries, photographs, interviews, surveys, or raw data.

They are invaluable because they offer a direct connection to the subject matter, giving researchers the opportunity to analyze and interpret information from the most authentic perspective.

Primary source examples may include:

Historical documents like letters, speeches, or official government records
Personal accounts such as diaries or memoirs
Original research studies or experiments
Artifacts or physical objects from a specific time period or culture
Original photographs or videos captured during an event

What are Secondary Sources: Exploring the Foundations

Secondary sources are documents or materials that interpret, analyze, or summarize information from primary sources. They provide a foundational understanding of a topic by drawing upon primary sources and offering expert insights and perspectives. Examples of secondary sources include textbooks, scholarly articles, biographies, and review articles.

Secondary sources are valuable in research because they offer a broader context and analysis of the information found in primary sources. They help researchers gain a deeper understanding of a subject, identify patterns or trends, and evaluate the credibility and reliability of the information. Secondary sources are especially useful when researching complex or specialized topics that require expert interpretation.

According to our research paper writing service , some advantages of using secondary sources include the following:

Accessibility: Secondary sources are often readily available and easily accessible through libraries, databases, and online platforms.
Time-saving: Secondary sources provide condensed and synthesized information, saving researchers time and effort in collecting and analyzing primary sources.
Contextualization: Secondary sources offer a broader context for understanding primary sources, providing historical, social, or cultural background to the research topic.
Analysis and interpretation: Secondary sources often analyze and interpret primary source data, offering different perspectives and expert opinions.

Difference between Primary and Secondary Sources

Understanding the difference between the examples of primary and secondary sources is essential for conducting thorough research.

Primary sources are original materials that provide firsthand accounts or direct evidence of an event, topic, or period. They include documents, letters, diaries, interviews, photographs, and artifacts. These sources offer unique insights and perspectives from the time period being studied. For instance, when writing a poetry analysis essay example , a primary source could be the actual poem itself. Analyzing the words, themes, and literary techniques used in the poem provides a direct engagement with the poet's original work, allowing for a deeper understanding and interpretation of their artistic expression.

On the other hand, secondary sources interpret, analyze, and summarize information from primary sources. They are created by individuals who were not present during the events they are discussing. Secondary sources include textbooks, academic articles, books, documentaries, and reviews. They provide a broader understanding of a topic and often offer critical analysis and synthesis of multiple primary sources.

Here's a quick summary of the differences between primary and secondary sources:

When to Use Primary and Secondary Sources

Knowing when to use primary and secondary sources is essential in conducting thorough and reliable research. To help you navigate this important decision, let's explore some considerations and examples of primary and secondary sources:

Primary Sources:

When seeking firsthand accounts or original data related to an event, period, or topic.
When conducting historical or sociological research, primary sources provide direct evidence from the time period or individuals involved.
When studying original research reports or scientific experiments.
When analyzing personal interviews or diaries that offer valuable insights and perspectives.

Secondary Sources:

When wanting to understand and interpret primary sources from a different perspective or context.
When seeking expert analysis and interpretation of primary sources.
When building upon previous research and incorporating established scholarly knowledge into your own work.
When looking for comprehensive literature reviews or summaries of research on a particular topic.

Furthermore, if you're in search of a flawless thesis statement example for your research, we have you covered on that front as well!

Primary and Secondary Source Examples

As you already know, primary sources offer firsthand accounts or original data, while secondary sources provide analysis and interpretation of primary sources. Here are some examples of each:

How to Determine If a Source is Primary or Secondary

Determining whether a source is a primary or secondary source can sometimes be a bit challenging, but there are some key factors to consider. Here are some ways to determine if a source is primary or secondary:

Date of Publication: Primary sources are typically created close to the time of the event or period being studied, while secondary sources are usually written after the fact.
Author's Perspective: Primary sources are often written by people who were directly involved in the event or period, while secondary sources are usually written by researchers or historians analyzing the primary sources.
Intended Audience: Primary sources are usually intended for a specific audience at the time they were created, while secondary sources are typically created for a broader audience.
Content: Primary sources contain firsthand accounts, original data, or direct evidence of the event or period in question, while secondary sources interpret, analyze, or critique primary sources.

Understanding the distinction between primary and secondary sources can also be instrumental when crafting introductions for essays . By clearly stating the sources you will be using and their respective roles, you set the stage for a well-structured and credible essay that engages readers and showcases your research prowess. Remember to also consider the context and purpose of your primary and secondary sources in order to make an informed decision.

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Primary and Secondary Sources: Which One is Better in Research

When it comes to research, the question of whether primary or secondary sources are better is not a matter of superiority but rather the relevance and purpose of the research.

Primary sources provide firsthand information or original data that comes directly from the source. They have a sense of immediacy and authenticity, making them valuable for historical research, sociological studies, or analyzing original documents. Examples of primary sources include diaries, letters, interviews, surveys, and eyewitness accounts.

On the other hand, secondary sources interpret, analyze, or summarize information from primary sources. They are created by someone who did not directly experience or witness the events or phenomena being discussed. Secondary sources include textbooks, journal articles, scholarly journals, and books that provide analysis or commentary on a particular topic.

The choice between primary and secondary sources depends on the research goals and the depth of analysis required. Primary sources are essential for original research, while secondary sources provide a broader understanding of a topic by incorporating multiple perspectives and expert analysis. Ultimately, the best approach is often a combination of both primary and secondary source examples, using them in tandem to paint a comprehensive and well-rounded picture.

In the meantime, you can enhance your academic writing by learning how to write transition sentences !

What Are Some Examples of Primary Sources?

Here are some more examples of primary sources:

Historical speeches and documents
Autobiographies and memoirs
Court records and legal documents
Maps and geographical surveys
Personal journals and diaries of historical figures
Works of art, such as paintings or sculptures, from the time period
Correspondence between individuals or groups
Census records and population surveys
Musical compositions and scores from the era
Advertisements and promotional materials from the time period

Final Thoughts

In a nutshell, understanding the importance of primary and secondary sources is like having a secret key to unlock a treasure chest of knowledge. By using both types of sources in your research, you get to dive deep into the past and discover firsthand accounts and different perspectives. Primary sources take you right to the heart of historical events, connecting you directly with the people and moments that shaped history. Secondary sources, on the other hand, act as friendly guides, helping you make sense of the primary sources by analyzing and interpreting them.

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Why Do I Need to Use Both Primary and Secondary Sources in My Research?

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Primary Sources

Texts of laws and other original documents.

Newspaper reports, by reporters who witnessed an event or who quote people who did.

Speeches, diaries, letters and interviews - what the people involved said or wrote.

Original research.

Datasets, survey data, such as census or economic statistics.

Photographs, video, or audio that capture an event.

Secondary Sources

Secondary Sources are one step removed from primary sources, though they often quote or otherwise use primary sources. They can cover the same topic, but add a layer of interpretation and analysis. Secondary sources can include:

Most books about a topic.

Analysis or interpretation of data.

Scholarly or other articles about a topic, especially by people not directly involved.

Documentaries (though they often include photos or video portions that can be considered primary sources).

When is a Primary Source a Secondary Source?

Whether something is a primary or secondary source often depends upon the topic and its use.

A biology textbook would be considered a secondary source if in the field of biology, since it describes and interprets the science but makes no original contribution to it.

On the other hand, if the topic is science education and the history of textbooks, textbooks could be used a primary sources to look at how they have changed over time.

Examples of Primary and Secondary Sources

Adapted from Bowling Green State University, Library User Education, Primary vs. Secondary Sources .

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Writing Tips

Primary and Secondary Sources—What’s The Difference?

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25th February 2022

When you write an essay or research paper , you gather the information you need from various sources. Most of these can be classified as primary sources or secondary , and strong academic writing will draw relevant information from both.

In this post, we’ll explain the difference between a primary source and a secondary source and give some examples of each.

What’s a Primary Source?

A primary source gives first-hand facts about your research subject. It provides direct evidence without analysis or interpretation. Primary sources are created by people who are (or were) directly involved with the event being studied.

The primary sources you refer to depend on your field of study. Let’s look at some examples for different subject areas:

● Science: The main primary source used in the sciences is data . This could be data you’ve recorded from your own experiments , surveys, and interviews, or it may be from studies carried out by others.

● Art: Original paintings and sculptures.

● Literature: Novels, poems, and play scripts .

● History: Artifacts, letters, and photos .

● Law: Statutes and court records.

Working with primary sources gives you the opportunity to evaluate them and make your own analyses. It increases the validity of your research because it demonstrates that you haven’t relied solely on other people’s findings.

What’s a Secondary Source?

A secondary source refers to information from a primary source. It could simply describe the source, or it could offer some interpretation or analysis of it.

We’ll now take each of the above primary sources and give an example of a possible secondary source:

● Data: Journal article

● Painting: Biography of the artist

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● Sculpture: Description from an exhibition guide

● Novel: Book review

● Poem: Critique

● Artifact: Encyclopedia

● Letter: Textbook

● Photo: Documentary

● Statute: Legal dictionary

● Court records: Newspaper article

Secondary sources offer an alternative perspective on a primary source. They can help you gain a broad overview of a topic and often save you time by summarizing information from multiple sources. Moreover, secondary sources allow you to compare your findings with those of other researchers.

Summary: Primary and Secondary Sources

Primary sources provide first-hand accounts of a topic, while secondary sources provide some interpretation or analysis of a primary source. Both types are valuable in qualifying your research.

Whichever type you refer to in your academic writing, it’s important that you cite it correctly in the appropriate referencing style . If you’re referring to a study you read about in a secondary source, you should, if possible, locate the original primary source and cite it directly.

We hope you now know the difference between primary and secondary sources. If you want an expert to review your writing, including reference lists and bibliographies, our proofreaders are just a few clicks away. You can even send us 500 words to proofread for free .

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Deakin University

Primary and Secondary Sources

Primary and secondary sources: about.

Finding Primary or Secondary Resources
Evaluating Primary and Secondary Sources

Many university assessments will ask you to find, evaluate and use primary and secondary sources. This guide explains key differences between primary and secondary sources. It also gives you tips for how to find and critically evaluate these sources.

Definitions

In simple terms, primary sources provide original evidence or first-hand accounts.

Secondary sources summarise, interpret or analyse primary sources.

To put these definitions into practice, an example of a primary source you might use in a History essay are the letters of author Jane Austen. These letters are a primary source because they are first-hand accounts by the author herself. However, a book or journal article written by a historian which analyses Jane Austen’s letters to discuss her views on gender, is a secondary source. This is because it uses a primary source (Austen’s letters) to interpret and analyse Austen’s views on gender.

Types of sources

The definitions above are a broad way of understanding the key differences between a primary and secondary source.

Primary and secondary sources come in many different formats. Many disciplines have commonly used ‘types’ of primary sources. The table below lists common primary sources used within various disciplines.

Common Secondary Sources

Secondary sources vary less by discipline. Common secondary sources used across disciplines include:

Next: Finding Primary or Secondary Resources >>
Last Updated: Feb 10, 2023 3:54 PM
URL: https://deakin.libguides.com/primary-or-secondary-sources

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Primary Sources and Secondary Sources

Primary Sources

When you use source material outside of your own experience, you’re using either primary or secondary sources. Primary sources are sources that were created or written during the time period in which they reference and can include things like diaries, letters, films, interviews, and even results from research studies. Secondary sources are sources that analyze primary sources in some way and include things like magazine and journal articles that analyze study results, literature, interviews, etc.

Sometimes, you’ll be conducting original research as you work to develop your argument, and your professor may encourage you to do things like conduct interviews or locate original documents. Personal interviews can be excellent sources that can help you build your ethos, pathos, and logos in your essay.

When conducting an interview for your research, it’s important to be prepared in order to make the most of your time with the person you are interviewing.

TIPS! The following tips will help you get the most out of your interview:
Prepare questions you want to ask in advance.
Be prepared with some follow up questions, just in case the questions you have prepared don’t get the interviewee talking as you had hoped.
Have a recording device handy. It’s a good idea to record your interview if your interviewee is okay with it.
If you can’t record the interview, come prepared to take good notes.
Record the date of your interview, as you will need this for documentation.
Obtain contact information for your interviewee in case you have follow-up questions later.
Be polite and appreciative to your interviewee, as you will want the experience to be a positive one all the way around.

Secondary Sources

When you’re searching for secondary source material to support your claims, you want to keep some basic ideas in mind:

Your source material should be relevant to your content.
Your source material should be credible, as you want your sources to help you build your ethos.
Your source material should be current enough to feel relevant to your audience.

Before you make your final decisions about the sources you’ll use in your argumentative essay, it’s important to review the following pages and take advantage of the helpful source credibility checklist below.

There are two versions of the checklist below. The first is a printable PDF file, and the second is an interactive PDF file. In some browsers, you may need to download or save this file to be able to utilize all of its functionality.

Using Evidence Checklist
Interactive Using Evidence Checklist

This material was created by Excelsior Online Writing Lab (OWL) and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-4.0 International License . You are free to use, adapt, and/or share this material as long as you properly attribute. Please keep this information on materials you use, adapt, and/or share for attribution purposes.

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Resources For

62 Primary vs. Secondary Sources

Primary sources.

Ready to gather sources for your research paper or report? Great! Depending on the genre you’re writing in or your audience’s expectations, you may need to look at both primary and secondary sources. But, what are primary and secondary sources?

Primary sources are those sources we rely on for firsthand information. The information contained in primary sources is sometimes unedited, meaning it is in its original form and hasn’t been proofread or revised by another person yet. Any type of information that is original and uninterpreted is a primary source.

To be extra specific, primary sources are those that provide firsthand, original information. Some examples of primary sources might include:

Artifacts (e.g. coins, plant specimens, fossils, furniture, tools, clothing, all from the time under study)
Audio recordings (e.g. radio programs)
Diaries and letters
Internet communications on email, listservs
Interviews (e.g., oral histories, telephone, e-mail)
Journal articles published in peer-reviewed publications
Newspaper articles written at the time
Original Documents (i.e. birth certificate, will, marriage license, trial transcript)
Photographs
Proceedings of Meetings, conferences and symposia
Records of organizations, government agencies (e.g. annual report, treaty, constitution, government document)
Survey Research (e.g., market surveys, public opinion polls)
Video recordings (e.g. television programs)
Works of art, architecture, literature, and music (e.g., paintings, sculptures, musical scores, buildings, novels, poems).

Secondary Sources

Secondary sources differ from primary sources in that they are not original or firsthand accounts; they come to us secondhand. Secondary sources also use primary sources and build on primary sources through analysis, interpretation, commentary, and criticism. In fact, your research paper will ultimately be a secondary source. Examples of secondary sources might include:

Biographical works
Commentaries, criticisms
Dictionaries, Encyclopedias
Journal articles (depending on the disciple can be primary)
Magazine and newspaper articles (this distinction varies by discipline)
Monographs, other than fiction and autobiography
Website (could, at times, be considered primary)

You might also find this table comparing types of primary versus secondary sources helpful.

Attributions

Adapted from “Palni Information Literacy Modules: Module 5: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Sources,” LibGuides, CC-BY, https://libguides.palni.edu/instruction_resources/ILModule5 .

Adapted from “Thinking about Primary Sources,” CC-BY, https://libguides.palni.edu/instruction_resources/ILModule5 .

“Journalism, Fake News, & Disinformation,“ Posetti, J. et. al., UNESCO, CC BY-SA, https://en.unesco.org/sites/default/files/journalism_fake_news_disinformation_print_friendly_0.pdf .

Adapted from “Research: A Step-by-Step Guide: Primary/Secondary Sources,” LibGuides, CC-BY-SA, https://libguides.centralia.edu/c.php?g=383652&p=2600069 .

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Furman University
Special Collections & Archives

Information For Students

What is the difference between primary and secondary sources.

What are Special Collections and Archives?
I have to write a research paper using primary sources. Where do I start?
How do I cite primary source materials?

Primary sources are firsthand, contemporary accounts of events created by individuals during that period of time or several years later (such as correspondence, diaries, memoirs and personal histories). These original records can be found in several media such as print, artwork, and audio and visual recording. Examples of primary sources include manuscripts, newspapers, speeches, cartoons, photographs, video, and artifacts. Primary sources can be described as those sources that are closest to the origin of the information. They contain raw information and thus, must be interpreted by researchers.

Secondary sources are closely related to primary sources and often interpret them. These sources are documents that relate to information that originated elsewhere. Secondary sources often use generalizations, analysis, interpretation, and synthesis of primary sources. Examples of secondary sources include textbooks, articles, and reference books.

<< Previous: What are Special Collections and Archives?
Next: I have to write a research paper using primary sources. Where do I start? >>
Last Updated: Oct 21, 2021 2:47 PM
URL: https://libguides.furman.edu/special-collections/for-students

Primary Sources: Primary vs. Secondary

Primary vs. Secondary
American History
World History

Humanities and Social Sciences

Primary Sources are immediate, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people who had a direct connection with it. Primary sources can include:

Texts of laws and other original documents.
Newspaper reports, by reporters who witnessed an event or who quote people who did.
Speeches, diaries, letters and interviews - what the people involved said or wrote.
Original research.
Datasets, survey data, such as census or economic statistics.
Photographs, video, or audio that capture an event.

Most books about a topic.
Analysis or interpretation of data.
Scholarly or other articles about a topic, especially by people not directly involved.
Documentaries (though they often include photos or video portions that can be considered primary sources).

When is a Primary Source a Secondary Source?

Whether something is a primary or secondary source often depends upon the topic and its use.

A biology textbook would be considered a secondary source if in the field of biology, since it describes and interprets the science but makes no original contribution to it.

On the other hand, if the topic is science education and the history of textbooks, textbooks could be used a primary sources to look at how they have changed over time.

Examples of Primary and Secondary Sources

Primary Sources

Performance

Secondary Sources

Article critiquing a piece of art
Book about a specific subject
Dissertation
Review of play
Treatise on a particular genre of poetry
Essay on a treaty

* Content borrowed from The University of Massachusetts Boston Healy Library's Primary Sources: A Research Guide .

Next: American History >>
Last Updated: Nov 8, 2023 7:33 PM
URL: https://libguides.oberlin.edu/primary-sources

Reconstruction Era Essay

Background Information

Primary Sources

Secondary sources, video tutorial.

Articles and E-books
Citation Tips
Evaluate Sources
Reviews vs. Articles

Primary Sources = Original, Firsthand Evidence

Examples of primary sources . . ..

Original Documents : diaries, records, autobiographies, letters, interviews, speeches, research reports, photographs, newspaper articles dated near the time of the event, original experiments, raw data, court cases
Original Creative Works : novels, paintings, music scores
Artifacts : pottery, buildings, clothing, weapons, jewelry, etc.

Primary sources are created during the time the event took place, or created later by those who have directly witnessed what they are describing, and bring us as close to the original event or thought as possible without being filtered, influenced or analyzed through interpretation.

How to Analyze a Primary Document Not sure how to use a primary source? Use the worksheets on this page to help you know what questions to ask.

Primary Sources and Reconstruction

Links to all sorts of primary sources (images, interviews, etc.).

Primary Source Nexus Search for primary sources on a variety of topics.
Primary Source Spotlight: Reconstruction from Primary Source Nexus
Library of Congress Digital Collections Search examples: reconstruction AND south reconstruction AND civil war Freedmen's Bureau
Civil War and Reconstruction, 1861-1877 from the U.S. History Primary Source Timeline via the Library of Congress
National Archives: Freedmen's Bureau Resources
North Carolina Newspapers [DigitalNC] Search for historic events, people, places, etc. and view the entire scanned newspaper.

Includes 3.5 million pages of digitized content from over 1,000 North Carolina county newspapers.

Women's writings from the Colonial period to 1950.

Secondary Sources = Summary, Evaluation, Analytical Interpretation

Secondary sources analyze or interpret a primary resource and are produced AFTER an event.

Examples of secondary sources . . .

encyclopedias
magazine articles
biographies written after someone's death
newspaper articles analyzing a past event
books written about a historical topic

Secondary sources summarize, evaluate, and analytically interpret primary material, often by offering a personal perspective. Use secondary sources to see what others have discussed. They can be a good place to gather background information on a topic. You can also use secondary sources to explore what subtopics have already been explored on a given topic.

Secondary Source Examples

<< Previous: Background Information
Next: Articles and E-books >>
Last Updated: Feb 14, 2024 4:33 PM
URL: https://libguides.pittcc.edu/reconstruction

Extended Essay Resources: Primary Sources

Research Video Tutorials
Video Tutorials
In-text Citations
Finding and Citing Images
Plagiarism VS. Documentation
MiniLessons
Human Rights News
Peace & Conflict News
Primary Sources
Introductory Resources
Narrowing Your Topic
Subject Resources

What is a Primary Source?

A primary source is a document or physical object which was written or created during the time under study. These sources were present during an experience or time period and offer an inside view of a particular event. Some types of primary sources include:

ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS (excerpts or translations acceptable): Diaries, speeches, manuscripts, letters, interviews, news film footage, autobiographies, official records
CREATIVE WORKS: Poetry, drama, novels, music, art
RELICS OR ARTIFACTS: Pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings

Examples of primary sources include:

Diary of Anne Frank - Experiences of a Jewish family during WWII
The Constitution of Canada - Canadian History
A journal article reporting NEW research or findings
Weavings and pottery - Native American history
Plato's Republic - Women in Ancient Greece

What is a secondary source? A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. These sources are one or more steps removed from the event. Secondary sources may have pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in them. Some types of seconday sources include:

PUBLICATIONS: Textbooks, magazine articles, histories, criticisms, commentaries, encyclopedias

Examples of secondary sources include:

A journal/magazine article which interprets or reviews previous findings
A history textbook
A book about the effects of WWI

Search by keyword for Primary Sources Perform a keyword search for your topic and add one of the words below: (these are several examples of words that would identify a source as primary)

correspondence
early works
manuscripts
personal narratives

From “What is a Primary Source?.” Princeton University . <http://www.princeton.edu/~refdesk/primary2.html>

Click for database USERNAMES and PASSWORDS You must be logged into your @aisr.org account to access the above password document.

Primary and Secondary Sources

Docs Teach The online tool for teaching with documents, from the National Archives
Fordham University Primary source documents for the study of history.
History Digital Library Online Historical Documents
Internet Archive The Internet Archive and Open Library offers over 6,000,000 fully accessible public domain eBooks.
Internet History Sourcebooks Project The Internet History Sourcebooks Project is a collection of public domain and copy-permitted historical texts presented cleanly (without advertising or excessive layout) for educational use.
Library of Congress - American Memory American Memory provides free and open access through the Internet to written and spoken words, sound recordings, still and moving images, prints, maps, and sheet music that document the American experience.
Smithsonian Source Resources for teaching history.
Spartacus Educational Educational materials and primary source documents.
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Next: Human Rights >>
Last Updated: Aug 15, 2023 3:34 PM
URL: https://libguides.aisr.org/extendedessay

APUSH Research: Primary vs. Secondary Sources

Primary vs. secondary sources.

APA Citation This link opens in a new window
Vetted Websites

Most research papers in the arts and humanities require use of primary and secondary sources for critical analysis and support of ideas. But what is a primary source and what is a secondary source? Figuring this out can be complicated!

What is a Primary Source?

The Reference and User Services Association (RUSA) of the American Library Association offers a historical definition of a primary source, to wit:

"primary sources are original records created at the time historical events occurred or well after events in the form of memoirs and oral histories." [RUSA, "Using Primary Sources on the Web," accessed January 2014 through http://www.ala.org/rusa/sections/history/

resources/pubs/usingprimarysources]

What is a Secondary Source?

A secondary source describes, discusses, analyzes or interprets information about an event, object, or person, etc.

Examples of Primary Sources

Synthesizing Primary Resources

Purdue OWL Writing Lab You will also find a prompt on the Purdue OWL page to go to Citation Machine, where you can automatically create your citation in either APA or ALA format.

Comparison Chart

Primary Sources-Historical Research VIDEO

Evaluating Primary Sources

Once you have found what looks like an interesting website with a plethora of primary sources, what is your next step? Look critically at where the information comes from. You want to be confident that the sources you've found e.g. scanned images, are reliable and represent an accurate depiction of the original document. Determining the origin or source of an item is referred to as determining the “provenance.”

As a student who may be required to evaluate a full-text primary source online, how might you go about determining the quality and reliability of a primary source website? Using the criteria presented below can help you assess the value of the sources you have found.

Authority/ Who is Responsible for the Website? When applying this criteria to primary sources accessed on the Web, it is important to keep in mind you are evaluating the person or organization responsible for creating the website rather than the creator of the original primary source. Look for the name of the individual or organization responsible for the page. Look for: "About" link — is there an “about,” “background,” or “FAQ” link that names the individual or organization responsible for this information? To find an "about" link or information about the author/organization you may need to find the homepage for the entire site. This may require backtracking a url, i.e. deleting the end of the URL section by section until you find a main page for the site. If no background information about the author is given, try using Google to search the author's name. W ho is the individual or the organization, and what qualifications do they have? I s there some form of contact information given (e.g. email, etc.)?

Hints from the url.

Websites produced by educational or governmental institutions with collections of primary sources are generally of higher quality than personal websites. . Common domain codes are:

Who is the Intended Audience for the Website? Is there a clear purpose or reason for this site? Websites can be created for a variety of purposes: to disseminate information, provide access to collections, support teaching, sell products, persuade, etc. Discerning the purpose can help you determine the quality of the information the site provides.

Some pages explicitly state their purpose, others do not. Check for an “about” or “FAQ” link — these links often provide information about the purpose of the site.

Assessing Website Accuracy and Content

Determining the Origin of the Document In a website of primary sources it is important to determine where the individual or organization acquired the documents. Different factors need to be considered based on the format of the document and type of site:

Scanned image of a document: The image of scanned documents usually illustrates what the original documents look like. The origin of the documents at a website may be determined by the creator of the website. For example, the Library of Congress website generally supplies documents from its own manuscript collections, but for other organizations providing in-house documents is not always possible.

Transcribed document: Transcribed documents do not illustrate the original image of the document but only provide the content in plain text format. It is important to discover the original source of transcribed documents to determine if the transcription is complete and accurate. The source, which may be the original documents or published editions, should be cited.

Evaluating Content and Arrangement Is the content clearly explained, organized and accessible?

Good web design not only makes an electronic resource easier to use, it is also one indication that the content has been provided, and is being maintained, by a trustworthy source. Although standards of what constitutes “good web design” vary widely, clarity, simplicity and easily-understandable navigational cues are some of the obvious signs. Some considerations are: s earchable document text ;p ages that are legible with clear explanations; o bvious navigational aids that provide access to documents; obvious links on every webpage to the homepage; and i ndividual URLs for each document for ease of linking and citation information.

"Evaluating Primary Sources", American Library Association, January 12, 2015.

http://www.ala.org/rusa/sections/history /

resources/primarysources/evaluating

(Accessed October 8, 2019)

<< Previous: Home
Next: Research >>
Last Updated: Dec 6, 2022 6:47 PM
URL: https://ermurrowhs.libguides.com/APUSH

Part 3: Research

14 Primary and Secondary Sources

The Research Paper

Amy Guptill

There is a distinction between primary and secondary sources . Primary sources are original documents, data, or images: the law code of the Le Dynasty in Vietnam, the letters of Kurt Vonnegut, data gathered from an experiment on color perception, an interview, or Farm Service Administration photographs from the 1930s. Secondary sources are produced by analyzing primary sources. They include news articles, scholarly articles, reviews of films or art exhibitions, documentary films, and other pieces that have some descriptive or analytical purpose. Some things may be primary sources in one context but secondary sources in another. For example, if you’re using news articles to inform an analysis of a historical event, they’re serving as secondary sources. If you’re counting the number of times a particular newspaper reported on different types of events, then the news articles are serving as primary sources because they’re more akin to raw data.

When searching for information on a topic, it is important to understand the value of primary, secondary, and tertiary sources.

Primary sources allow researchers to get as close as possible to original ideas, events, and empirical research as possible. Such sources may include creative works, first-hand or contemporary accounts of events, and the publication of the results of empirical observations or research.

Secondary sources analyze, review, or summarize information in primary resources or other secondary resources. Even sources presenting facts or descriptions about events are secondary unless they are based on direct participation or observation. Moreover, secondary sources often rely on other secondary sources and standard disciplinary methods to reach results, and they provide the principle sources of analysis about primary sources.

Tertiary sources provide overviews of topics by synthesizing information gathered from other resources. Tertiary resources often provide data in a convenient form or provide information with context by which to interpret it.

The distinctions between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources can be ambiguous. An individual document may be a primary source in one context and a secondary source in another. Encyclopedias are typically considered tertiary sources, but a study of how encyclopedias have changed on the Internet would use them as primary sources. Time is a defining element.

While these definitions are clear, the lines begin to blur in the different discipline areas.

In the Humanities & Social Sciences

In the humanities and social sciences, primary sources are the direct evidence or first-hand accounts of events without secondary analysis or interpretation. A primary source is a work that was created or written contemporary with the period or subject being studied. Secondary sources analyze or interpret historical events or creative works.

Primary sources

Original works of art
Photographs
Works of literature

A primary source is an original document containing firsthand information about a topic. Different fields of study may use different types of primary sources.

Secondary sources

Biographies
Dissertations
Indexes, abstracts, bibliographies (used to locate a secondary source)
Journal articles

A secondary source contains commentary on or discussion about a primary source. The most important feature of secondary sources is that they offer an interpretation of information gathered from primary sources.

Tertiary sources

Dictionaries
Encyclopedias

A tertiary source presents summaries or condensed versions of materials, usually with references back to the primary and/or secondary sources. They can be a good place to look up facts or get a general overview of a subject, but they rarely contain original material.

In the Sciences

In the sciences, primary sources are documents that provide full description of the original research. For example, a primary source would be a journal article where scientists describe their research on the genetics of tobacco plants. A secondary source would be an article commenting or analyzing the scientists’ research on tobacco.

Conference proceedings
Lab notebooks
Technical reports
Theses and dissertations

These are where the results of original research are usually first published in the sciences. This makes them the best source of information on cutting edge topics. However the new ideas presented may not be fully refined or validated yet.

These tend to summarize the existing state of knowledge in a field at the time of publication. Secondary sources are good to find comparisons of different ideas and theories and to see how they may have changed over time.

Compilations

These types of sources present condensed material, generally with references back to the primary and/or secondary literature. They can be a good place to look up data or to get an overview of a subject, but they rarely contain original material.

Attributions

English Composition II by Lumen Learning is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Writing in College by Amy Guptill is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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Differences Between Primary and Secondary Sources in EE Research

As a seasoned IB writer with extensive experience guiding students through their extended essay (EE) writing, I’m excited to share my insights on a topic critical to your success: understanding the differences between primary and secondary sources in EE research. In my path through the IB curriculum, I’ve noticed a common hurdle for many students: the efficient use of sources. Let’s break down these concepts so you can confidently ace your EE research!

What are Primary Sources in EE Research?

In the extended essay research of the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, primary sources are like hidden gems waiting to be found. As an experienced IB writer, I understand and appreciate their immense value. In my opinion, primary sources are the heart of any EE research, providing a direct, unadulterated view of your subject.

Now, what exactly constitutes a primary source? According to general IB criteria, primary sources are original, firsthand records or evidence directly related to your topic of study. These sources have not been altered or interpreted by others, making them invaluable for original research. They provide a unique perspective and can help you develop a compelling argument or hypothesis.

Here are some typical examples of primary sources across various subjects:

Historical Studies . Original documents like letters, diaries, government records, and photographs.
Literature . The original literary works of authors, poets, and playwrights.
Sciences . Data from experiments, surveys, or fieldwork conducted by the researcher.
Art . Consider original artworks, music compositions, and architectural designs.
Social Studies . Interviews, autobiographies, and eyewitness accounts.

From my experience, using primary sources effectively can significantly improve the quality of your extended essay. They allow you to provide a direct analysis and interpretation of the data, which is crucial for developing a strong argument or narrative. Moreover, primary sources give your essay a foundation of authenticity and originality, which is highly valued in the IB assessment criteria.

However, it’s essential to approach these sources with a critical eye. As I know from my own EE writing experience , not all primary sources are equally reliable or relevant. Evaluating each source’s authenticity, bias, and relevance to your research question is essential.

So, Primary sources are essential for EE research. They offer a depth and richness that secondary sources cannot replicate. As you begin to write your extended essay, I encourage you to seek out and use these sources thoughtfully and critically. They can make the difference between a good paper and an exceptional one.

Understanding Secondary Sources in EE Research

As an IB writer and mentor, I’ve often stressed the importance of understanding secondary sources in extended essay research. In my opinion, secondary sources are like the map that guides you through the vast array of information available on your topic. According to general IB criteria, these sources are critical for providing your EE context, background, and supporting arguments.

So, what exactly are secondary sources? Unlike primary sources, which are original and direct, secondary sources interpret, analyze, or discuss primary sources. They offer a second-hand perspective, which is crucial for understanding the broader context of your topic. In essence, they help you see the “big picture.”

Common examples of secondary sources include:

Books and Textbooks . These often provide comprehensive overviews on a subject.
Journal Articles . Scholars typically use these to discuss their research findings or review other studies.
Critiques and Reviews . These are useful for understanding different perspectives and interpretations.
Documentaries and Biographies . They offer a narrative or analysis of events or lives based on primary data.
Encyclopedias and Reference Books . These are ideal for getting summary information and quick facts.

From my experience, a well-researched EE effectively integrates secondary sources to support and enrich the analysis derived from primary sources. These sources are invaluable for situating your research within the existing body of knowledge. They allow you to build upon the work of others, providing credibility and depth to your arguments.

However, as I know from my writing, not all secondary sources are created equal. It’s crucial to critically assess each source for its reliability, bias, and relevance to your research question. Remember, the goal is to engage with these sources critically, not just to use them to support your preconceived ideas.

Secondary sources are an integral part of successful EE. They provide the necessary context, analysis, and interpretation that enriches your primary research. I encourage you to use these sources wisely and critically. They can significantly enhance the quality of your research and writing.

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Primary vs. Secondary Sources in EE Research

Understanding the differences between primary and secondary sources is crucial. As a seasoned IB writer and tutor, I’ve realized that grasping these differences helps you meet all assessment criteria in the extended essay rubric . Let’s break down these key points to ensure your EE harnesses the full potential of both sources.

Origin and Nature

Primary sources are original materials; they are the unaltered, firsthand accounts or data relevant to your study. From my experience, these sources offer a direct, unfiltered connection to your topic, whether it’s a historical event, literary work, scientific experiment, or social phenomenon.

In contrast, secondary sources are one step removed. They involve analysis, interpretation, or commentary on primary sources. Typically, they offer a synthesis of information, providing a broader perspective or context to the primary data.

Purpose and Use

The primary aim of using primary sources in your EE is to obtain direct evidence or firsthand accounts. They are invaluable for original analysis and argumentation. As I know from guiding students, primary sources allow for a deeper engagement with your topic, often leading to novel insights and conclusions.

Secondary sources serve a different purpose: interpreting primary data and providing secondary analysis and commentary. They are essential for understanding your topic’s broader context, theories, or historical background. According to general IB criteria, secondary sources are crucial for situating your primary research within the existing body of knowledge.

Reliability and Perspective

Primary sources offer an authentic snapshot of a particular time, place, or event. However, they can be subjective, representing a single perspective. From my experience, evaluating their reliability and bias is important.

While secondary sources are generally more removed from the original event or creation, they can offer a more balanced view, analyzing and comparing various primary sources. However, depending on the author’s interpretation, they can also carry their own biases.

Availability and Accessibility

Primary sources can sometimes be challenging, especially for historical or rare topics. They might be located in archives, libraries, or specific databases, requiring more effort to access.

Generally, secondary sources are more readily available. Scholarly articles, books, and reviews can be accessed through academic libraries and online databases, making them easier to find and use in your EE.

Choosing the Right Sources for Your Extended Essay

Choosing the right sources for your extended essay in the International Baccalaureate program is a critical step that can significantly influence the quality and direction of your research. I’ve seen firsthand the impact of well-chosen sources on the success of an EE. Let’s discuss some key strategies to help you select the most appropriate and effective sources for your research.

Understand Your Research Question

Before diving into source selection, it’s vital to understand your research question clearly. This clarity will guide you in identifying the sources most relevant and beneficial to your study. In my opinion, a well-defined research question is like a compass that directs your research efforts.

Evaluate Primary Sources

When selecting primary sources, the first criterion should be their direct relevance to your research question. Look for sources that provide firsthand evidence or data related to your topic.

The authenticity and reliability of primary sources are crucial. Ensure that the sources are genuine and provide accurate information. As I know from experience, using questionable primary sources can undermine the credibility of your entire essay.

Assess Secondary Sources

Choose secondary sources that are respected and valued in the academic community. Peer-reviewed journal articles, reputable books, and academic critiques are excellent choices. These sources should provide insightful analysis and interpretation that supports your primary research.

Be aware of the biases and perspectives present in secondary sources. A critical evaluation of these sources is necessary to understand their limitations and how they might influence your research. From my experience, acknowledging these biases is essential for a well-rounded and objective analysis.

Balance Variety and Depth

Including various sources can enrich your EE by providing multiple perspectives on your topic. This diversity can lead to a more comprehensive understanding of your subject matter.

While variety is essential, depth is equally crucial. Choose sources that allow for a deep and thorough exploration of your topic. As I know, a few high-quality sources can often be more valuable than a more significant number of superficial ones.

Accessibility and Availability

Consider the accessibility of your chosen sources. Ensure you can obtain the full texts of the sources you wish to use for your research. In my experience, planning for source accessibility early in the research process can save a lot of time and effort later on.

Also, your understanding of the chosen topic will evolve as you dig deeper into your research. Be prepared to adjust your sources accordingly. Sometimes, you may find new, more relevant options, or you may find that some of your original resources are not as useful as you expected.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, remember that using primary and secondary sources effectively is a hallmark of outstanding EE research. From my experience, students who master this art score high in their extended essays and gain invaluable skills for future academic work. So, go ahead and use these insights to write a compelling, well-researched extended essay that you can be proud of! Also, remember that you can contact our professionals at IB EE Writing Service for expert help.

Valerie Green

Valerie Green is a dedicated educator who spends her time helping high school and college students succeed. She writes articles and guides for various online education projects, providing students with the tools they need to excel in their studies. Friendly and approachable, she is committed to making a difference in the lives of students.

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The Reflective Project is an in-depth study where students select an ethical issue related to their career-related studies to research and analyze through various lenses. This research is not a mere academic exercise; it is a rigorous, reflective process that encourages students to connect their findings with their own beliefs, values, and experiences.

What’s the Ideal Number of Sources for Your IB EE?

What’s the ideal number of sources for my EE? The answer, nuanced and subject-specific, depends on striking the perfect balance between breadth and depth of research. As a seasoned IB writer, I’ve seen how this balance varies across disciplines — a History EE might thrive on many sources to construct a well-rounded argument, while a Math EE might depend on a few texts for its foundational theory.

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Pros and Pitfalls of Using Internet-Sourced EE Topics

In the ever-evolving landscape of academic research, the Internet has emerged as a significant resource for students undertaking the challenging task of the IB Extended Essay (EE). As an experienced IB writer, I’ve observed the transformative impact of Internet-sourced EE topics. This article aims to highlight both the benefits and challenges of this modern approach to research.

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Primary and Secondary Sources

Primary Sources
Finding Primary Sources

Primary vs. Secondary Sources

Scholarly Sources
Finding Secondary (and Scholarly) Sources

A secondary source is one that was created later by someone that did not experience firsthand or participate in the events in which the author is writing about. Secondary sources often summarize, interpret, analyze or comment on information found in primary sources.

Common examples of secondary sources include:

Biographies
Literary Criticism
Journal articles that do not present new research
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Quantitative and Qualitative

What is Quantitative and Qualitative Research?

Quantitative research is a methodology that relies on the exploration of numerical patterns, and it can be precisely measured. Using scientific inquiry, quantitative research relies on data that are observed or measured to examine research questions. Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT), Systematic Reviews, and Meta-Analysis are all examples of Quantitative research.

Qualitative research refers to any research based on something that is impossible to accurately and precisely measure. It focuses on the "why" rather than the "what" and relies on the direct experiences of human beings as meaning-making agents in their every day lives. Case studies, Ethnography, Grounded Theory, Narrative Studies or Focus Groups , are all examples of Qualitative research.

Finding Quantitative and Qualitative Research in PubMed and CINAHL?

The best way to find quantitative and/or qualitative articles in either PubMed or CINAHL is to search by publication type.

For quantitative articles, select Randomized Controlled Trials (RCT), Systematic Reviews, or Meta-Analysis in either CINAHL or PubMed.

For qualitative, search for Case Studies, Observational, Personal Narratives in PubMed , and Anecdote, Case Study, Editorial, Interview, Meta Synthesis in CINAHL .

You can also search both PubMed and CINAHL using 'quantitive' or 'qualitative' as part of your keyword search, but it's usually more effective to look for a specific publication type.

Primary and Secondary Research

What is Primary Research?

Primary research in nursing is one that reports the original findings of a study or experiment. It is usually written by the person(s) conducting the research, and is often found in peer reviewed journals.

Sources of primary research include:

Case studies

Clinical trials or randomized clinical trials (RCT)

Cohort studies

Dissertations or theses

Survey research

What is Secondary Research?

S econdary Research is one that summarizes, synthesizes or comments on original research. The Author(s) describe research done by others.

Sources of secondary research include:

Clinical practice guidelines

Meta-analysis

Patient education material

Reviews of literature

Systematic reviews

Finding Primary Research in PubMed and CINAHL

To find primary research in PubMed and CINAHL, you'll need to filter by article type. Trying searching for Clinical Trials, Randomized Controlled Trials, or Case Study/Reports in either database to find primary research.

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What is a Primary Source?

In the Sciences, primary sources include (but are not limited to):

Research studies or scientific experiments (tests a hypothesis or measures something and reports results)
Papers and proceedings from scientific conferences or meetings
Dissertations and Theses
Technical Reports

Most articles in scientific databases will be both scholarly and primary resources. But, scholarly secondary sources source do exist. They include:

Publications about the significance of research or experiments
Review of the results of several experiments or trials (meta-analyses or literature reviews)
Analysis of a clinical trial
Letters to the editor, editorials, perspectives

Primary research articles in the sciences

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Primary vs. Secondary Sources
What is a secondary source? A secondary source is anything that describes, interprets, evaluates, or analyzes information from primary sources. Common examples include: Books, articles and documentaries that synthesize information on a topic; Synopses and descriptions of artistic works; Encyclopedias and textbooks that summarize information and ideas; Reviews and essays that evaluate or ...
Primary vs Secondary Sources Writing Guide With Examples
Essay by Aristotle Textbook with analysis of Aristotle's ideas. Photographs of September 11, 2001. ... The art of integrating primary and secondary sources into academic research is a delicate balance that, when mastered, can significantly enhance the depth and breadth of scholarly work. Primary sources, with their direct connection to the ...
Primary and Secondary Sources
Knowing the difference between primary and secondary sources will help you determine what types of sources you may need to include in your research essay. In general, primary sources are original works (original historical documents, art works, interviews, etc.), while secondary sources contain others' insights and writings about those ...
Primary vs. Secondary Sources
A primary source gives you direct access to the subject of your research. Secondary sources provide second-hand information and commentary from other researchers. Examples include journal articles, reviews, and academic books. A secondary source describes, interprets, or synthesises primary sources. Primary sources are more credible as evidence ...
Distinguish Between Primary and Secondary Sources
1. Introduction. Whether conducting research in the social sciences, humanities (especially history), arts, or natural sciences, the ability to distinguish between primary and secondary source material is essential. Basically, this distinction illustrates the degree to which the author of a piece is removed from the actual event being described, informing the reader as to whether the author is ...
Primary and Secondary Sources: Understanding the Difference
Content: Primary sources contain firsthand accounts, original data, or direct evidence of the event or period in question, while secondary sources interpret, analyze, or critique primary sources. Understanding the distinction between primary and secondary sources can also be instrumental when crafting introductions for essays.
Primary vs. Secondary
Primary Sources are immediate, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people who had a direct connection with it. Primary sources can include: Texts of laws and other original documents. Newspaper reports, by reporters who witnessed an event or who quote people who did. Speeches, diaries, letters and interviews - what the people involved said or ...
Primary and Secondary Sources—What's The Difference?
Summary: Primary and Secondary Sources. Primary sources provide first-hand accounts of a topic, while secondary sources provide some interpretation or analysis of a primary source. Both types are valuable in qualifying your research. Whichever type you refer to in your academic writing, it's important that you cite it correctly in the ...
LibGuides: Primary and Secondary Sources: About
Primary and secondary sources come in many different formats. Many disciplines have commonly used 'types' of primary sources. The table below lists common primary sources used within various disciplines. Letters, diaries, archival records, field notes, historical newspaper articles. Buildings, architectural models, drawings, photographs.
Primary Sources and Secondary Sources
Primary sources are sources that were created or written during the time period in which they reference and can include things like diaries, letters, films, interviews, and even results from research studies. Secondary sources are sources that analyze primary sources in some way and include things like magazine and journal articles that analyze ...
Primary vs. Secondary Sources
Secondary Sources. Secondary sources differ from primary sources in that they are not original or firsthand accounts; they come to us secondhand. Secondary sources also use primary sources and build on primary sources through analysis, interpretation, commentary, and criticism. In fact, your research paper will ultimately be a secondary source.
Primary and Secondary Sources: Primary & Secondary
The function of secondary sources is to interpret primary sources, often quote or otherwise use the primary source. Thus, they can be described as at least one step removed from the event or phenomenon under review. Secondary source materials, then, contain information that has been interpreted, commented, analyzed or processed in such a way ...
What is the difference between Primary and Secondary sources
Primary sources can be described as those sources that are closest to the origin of the information. They contain raw information and thus, must be interpreted by researchers. Secondary sources are closely related to primary sources and often interpret them. These sources are documents that relate to information that originated elsewhere.
Primary vs. Secondary
Photographs, video, or audio that capture an event. Secondary Sources are one step removed from primary sources, though they often quote or otherwise use primary sources. They can cover the same topic, but add a layer of interpretation and analysis. Secondary sources can include: Most books about a topic. Analysis or interpretation of data.
Primary vs. Secondary Sources
Artifacts: pottery, buildings, clothing, weapons, jewelry, etc. Primary sources are created during the time the event took place, or created later by those who have directly witnessed what they are describing, and bring us as close to the original event or thought as possible without being filtered, influenced or analyzed through interpretation.
Primary vs. Secondary Sources: The Differences Explained
When writing an essay, a research paper, or a custom term paper, unfortunately, the majority of the students do not know how to differentiate between primary and secondary sources. In most cases, this creates a lot of problems when it comes to writing research papers that require them to use different sources.
Primary vs. Secondary Sources: Pros and Cons
When writing a research essay for school, you must support your assertions with appropriate sources. But what are the pros and cons of primary vs. secondary sources?
Extended Essay Resources: Primary Sources
A secondary source interprets and analyzes primary sources. These sources are one or more steps removed from the event. Secondary sources may have pictures, quotes or graphics of primary sources in them. Some types of seconday sources include: PUBLICATIONS: Textbooks, magazine articles, histories, criticisms, commentaries, encyclopedias ...
LibGuides: APUSH Research: Primary vs. Secondary Sources
Most research papers in the arts and humanities require use of primary and secondary sources for critical analysis and support of ideas. But what is a primary source and what is a secondary source? ... "primary sources are original records created at the time historical events occurred or well after events in the form of memoirs and oral ...
Primary and Secondary Sources
14 Primary and Secondary Sources . The Research Paper. Amy Guptill. There is a distinction between primary and secondary sources.Primary sources are original documents, data, or images: the law code of the Le Dynasty in Vietnam, the letters of Kurt Vonnegut, data gathered from an experiment on color perception, an interview, or Farm Service Administration photographs from the 1930s.
EE Research: Primary vs. Secondary Sources Explained
Primary vs. Secondary Sources in EE Research. Understanding the differences between primary and secondary sources is crucial. As a seasoned IB writer and tutor, I've realized that grasping these differences helps you meet all assessment criteria in the extended essay rubric.Let's break down these key points to ensure your EE harnesses the full potential of both sources.
Library: Primary and Secondary Sources: Secondary Sources
A secondary source is one that was created later by someone that did not experience firsthand or participate in the events in which the author is writing about. Secondary sources often summarize, interpret, analyze or comment on information found in primary sources. Common examples of secondary sources include: Books; Biographies; Essays ...
Finding Quantitative, Qualitative, Primary and Secondary Sources
What is Primary Research? Primary research in nursing is one that reports the original findings of a study or experiment. It is usually written by the person(s) conducting the research, and is often found in peer reviewed journals. Sources of primary research include: Case studies. Clinical trials or randomized clinical trials (RCT) Cohort studies
Library: CHEM 151 (Roberts): Primary v. secondary sources
What is a Primary Source? In the Sciences, primary sources include (but are not limited to): Research studies or scientific experiments (tests a hypothesis or measures something and reports results) Papers and proceedings from scientific conferences or meetings. Dissertations and Theses. Technical Reports.
Personal papers & correspondence
An online archive of the Canadian war experience, from any war, home front and battlefront, as told through the letters and images of Canadians themselves.

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