How do you analyse a primary source?

The easiest way to analyse a primary source (a source from the time period you are studying) is to remember the 4 Ws:

WHAT: What type of source is this? A letter, a picture, a diary entry?
WHEN: When was it written? Recently, 100 years ago, during a war or significant event?
WHO: Who wrote it? A king, a peasant, a rebel? 
WHY: Why do you think they produced this source? To inform, to persuade, to mislead? 

JS
Answered by Jennie S. History tutor

1868 Views

See similar History GCSE tutors

Related History GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain why the Weimar Republic experienced a period of recovery, 1923–29 (12)


C. Explain why international relations improved in the period 1924-28 (12) (Edexcel History A)


Which of the following was the more important reason why Hitler was appointed Chancellor of Germany in 1933: • the economic weakness of the Weimar Republic • the political weakness of the Weimar Republic? Explain your answer with reference to both points.


How do I structure a 6 mark question?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences