What is the difference between a primary and a secondary source?

Answer

Primary Sources:

A primary source is generally defined as a material produced at the time of an event or by someone who experienced the event firsthand. In science, a primary source is an original research article. 

Secondary Sources:

A secondary source is generally defined as a document that has been analyzed or interpreted by someone who does not have firsthand experience. 

                     

 

  • Last Updated Apr 04, 2025
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  • Answered By Ask A Librarian

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