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Cold War Europe - Berwick Academy: Types of Sources

Types of resources

There are three main types of information sources: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Knowing the differences between these sources can help you select the most appropriate ones for your coursework and research.

1. Primary sources and research are original documents or records of an event, discovery, or idea, often created at the time it occurred. These sources are usually the most credible evidence and are complemented by secondary sources, which provide analysis and context.

       Examples of primary sources:

  • diaries and journals
  • letters and correspondence
  • autobiographies and memoirs
  • oral histories 
  • speeches and transcripts
  • government documents (e. g., laws, rulings, court rulings)
  • maps and photos

2. Secondary sources describe, analyze, or critique primary sources. They provide commentary or explanation of original events.

  • criticism of art, music, or literature.
  • some non-fiction books
  • articles and editorials that interpret research or events
  • literature reviews or systemic reviews

3. Tertiary sources summarize or compile information from primary and secondary sources. They don't provide analysis and often are a good source for background information.

  • dictionaries
  • encyclopedias
  • bibliographies

Primary vs Secondary Sources

Primary vs Secondary Sources. (2020). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FZRxYfWYEBI

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