Research Help

In some fields of study, especially history, you may be asked to use primary sources in your research. Below breaks down the key differences between primary and secondary sources.

• Primary sources offer original material. They include case studies, first-hand accounts, original research studies and experiment, interviews, works of art, surveys, speeches, letters, and diaries.
  • Using primary sources helps us make sure that the data, conclusions, and facts we present stay true to the original.
  • Reading primary sources can help us understand historical contexts, learn research methodologies, and discover our own perspectives.
  • They also help us avoid being influenced by others’ interpretations.
• Secondary sources analyze, discuss, and interpret primary sources. They include reviews of others’ research studies, textbooks, literary analyses, and most conference papers.
  • Reading secondary sources can help us notice gaps in research, focus our research topics, and understand the primary sources.
  • They can also help us catch up with current research findings and trends.
  • Secondary sources are usually published long after the primary sources they address

Regardless of what type or format of source you use, it is important to utilize credible sources of information. We live in an age in which anyone can publish information, regardless of if their information is true. An easy way to tell if something is biased or not credible is if it tries to sell you something or does not use citations.

One method of checking credibility is the Currency Relevance Authority Accuracy Purpose Test.... or the CRAAP Test. The CRAAP test is a quick and straightforward way to make sure you find credible sources.