What is a secondary source in an essay?
A secondary source, then, is a source that has also done analysis of the same (or a similar) topic. You will then use this source to discuss how it relates to your argument about the primary source. A secondary source is a mediary between you and the primary source.
What is a primary source for an essay?
Primary Sources are immediate, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people who had a direct connection with it. Primary sources can include: Texts of laws and other original documents. Newspaper reports, by reporters who witnessed an event or who quote people who did.
What are the pros and cons of primary sources?
Pros and ConsPros: Perhaps the greatest advantage of primary research is that it allows the researcher to obtain original data that are current and highly specific to his or her needs.Cons: Because of the processes involved, primary research can be very time-consuming, sometimes requiring months or even years.
What are the limitations of a primary source?
Possible Primary Sources Disadvantages: Some primary sources, such as eyewitness accounts, may be too close to the subject, lacking a critical distance. Others, such as interviews, surveys, and experiments, are time consuming to prepare, administer, and analyze.