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Primary & Secondary Sources: Basic Definitions

Primary Sources

A primary source provides first-hand information on the topic. The author personally participated in the event under discussion, such as a science experiment, a humanitarian mission, or the writing of a novel. The work has not been changed or analyzed by another person or organization.

These include journal articles reporting original research – results of experiments, interviews, questionnaires, studies, surveys.

 

Secondary Sources

Secondary sources present an argument, interpretation, conclusion, or summary based upon information found in primary sources. In other words, the authors gained their information second hand.

These include books, encyclopedias, and journal articles (not reporting original research)​.

Content revised and used with permission by Mount Allison University Library.