What is the difference between primary and secondary sources and when should they be used?

Primary sources are written by those who experienced the topic in question first hand. They come in a variety of different formats including but not limited to journal entries, letters, recorded interviews, newspaper articles, maps, photographs and so on.

Secondary sources include writing that has been done about an event, often included is an analysis of primary sources. These include journal articles, books, lectures, and so on.

When writing an academic essay, it is crucial to understand what has already been written about the subject whether you agree or disagree with what has been said. As you begin writing a historical research paper you must include a Historiography, or a synopsis of the other work done on your topic (secondary sources), highlighting the ideas presented. 

Throughout your essay when highlighting a certain area or trying to make a specific point about an event you can use primary sources to assist your argument. 

MB
Answered by Mary B. History tutor

9214 Views

See similar History A Level tutors

Related History A Level answers

All answers ▸

How did Stalin become dictator of the USSR?


How accurate is it to say that the Weimar Republic never enjoyed popular support?


How accurate is it to suggest that the Treaty of Versailles was mainly responsible for the political and economic instability in Germany in the years 1919-23?


“To what extent was the Weimar Constitution the main reason for the Nazi Party’s rise to power”


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