How do you find primary and secondary sources?
A primary source gives you direct access to the subject of your research. Secondary sources provide second-hand information and commentary from other researchers. Examples include journal articles, reviews, and academic books. A secondary source describes, interprets, or synthesizes primary sources.
What are some examples of secondary sources in history?
Examples of secondary sources include:
- journal articles that comment on or analyse research.
- textbooks.
- dictionaries and encyclopaedias.
- books that interpret, analyse.
- political commentary.
- biographies.
- dissertations.
- newspaper editorial/opinion pieces.
How do you find trustworthy sources?
How to determine if a source is credible?
- Examine the source’s and author’s credentials and affiliations.
- Evaluate what sources are cited by the author.
- Make sure the source is up-to-date.
- Check the endorsements and reviews that the source received.
- Check if the publisher of the source is reputable.
What is a trustworthy source?
A reliable source is one that provides a thorough, well-reasoned theory, argument, discussion, etc. based on strong evidence. Scholarly, peer-reviewed articles or books -written by researchers for students and researchers. Original research, extensive bibliography
How do you know if evidence is reliable?
There are several main criteria for determining whether a source is reliable or not.
- 1) Accuracy. Verify the information you already know against the information found in the source.
- 2) Authority. Make sure the source is written by a trustworthy author and/or institution.
- 3) Currency.
- 4) Coverage.
What are some ways to evaluate a claim for credibility?
Examine each information source you locate and assess sources using the following criteria:
- Timeliness. Your resources need to be recent enough for your topic.
- Authority. Does the information come from an author or organization that has authority to speak on your topic?
- Audience.
- Relevance.
- Perspective.