Primary Source Vs. Secondary Source

Jun 20, 2018primary sources provide raw information and first-hand evidence. Secondary sources interpret, analyze or summarize primary sources. Sep 8, 2025the medium of the primary source can be anything, including written texts, statistics, objects, buildings, films, paintings, cartoons, etc.

What makes the source a primary. Jul 29, 2025the 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. Jun 25, 2025primary sources, such as diaries or photographs, originate directly from the time period or event being studied.

Dec 16, 2025what is a secondary source? Secondary sources interpret historical events by examining primary sources and usually other secondary sources, such as books and journal. Jun 24, 2025primary sources are distinguished from secondary sources, which cite, comment on, or build upon primary sources, though the distinction is not a sharp one.

Aug 27, 2025it is important to note that the distinction between primary and secondary sources is contextual and you may not be able to tell solely based on document type. Primary and secondary sources teach your students how to determine whether a resource is a primary or secondary source with these worksheets. Confused about the difference between primary and secondary sources?

Does your assignment require primary sources, and you are not sure how to locate such sources? Discover the identifying characteristics and advantages of primary and secondary (and tertiary) sources with this guide.