FAQ: What is the difference between primary and secondary sources?

Primary Sources

Primary Sources consist of original materials--a first-hand account of something. This information has not been filtered through interpretation. Examples of primary sources include:

• an original journal or diary
• a novel, poem or play
• original notes from an experiment or original research
• an original letter
• a piece of artwork or furniture, musical score, or theatrical performance

Secondary Sources

Secondary Sources are written after something has happened and have the benefit of hindsight. This information includes interpretations and evaluations of primary information. Examples of secondary sources include:

• a critique of a poem, play, or piece of literature
• a history book based on primary historical sources
• a scientific report based on experimental notes
• commentaries and criticisms
• biographical works