Primary vs secondary sources

Primary source

A primary source gives you original research that is presented for the first time, in other words new findings and theories.

See the following examples:

• An article in a newspaper written by a journalist or freelance writer who was present at that specific event and is now writing about and describing what has happened.
• Journals that publish latest or new findings.

Secondary source

A secondary source does not present new information or research, but provides information or evaluations of previously presented research.

See the following examples:

• Books and articles that explain or review research works.
• Histories and critical commentaries.
• Newspaper articles written by a reporter who had nothing to do with the actual research.
• Textbooks.