How do I analyse a primary source?

Analysing a primary source is key for everyone trying to explain a particular event in history. One must try to distance themselves and their opinions firstly and certain crucial points must be answered: what does the source say(content)? Who says it(author)? Who is the audience? What is the context of the time of writing/question (this is where one can rely on previously memorized facts and wider knowledge)? Answering these questions should bring together a pretty accurate description about what was the context in which the text was produced to a particular audience. It is also important to know that for GCSE the types of sources are usually clearly showing in a certain direction - no need to overthink it. Author, audience, content, context.

KG
Answered by Károly G. History tutor

3258 Views

See similar History GCSE tutors

Related History GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What were three main causes of the 1929 Great Depression?


Why did Hitler fail to invade Russia in 1941?


Why did Hitler rise to power?


What are the causes of World War One?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning