What is a secondary source?

A secondary source is defined as an analysis or interpretation of information gathered from primary sources. This means that it provides a second-hand account of an event, person, or phenomenon, synthesizing and analyzing the raw data or firsthand accounts found in primary sources, such as original documents, recordings, or artifacts. Secondary sources aim to give context or perspective, drawing conclusions that are not directly observable in primary sources.

In this context, while primary sources present firsthand evidence or direct accounts of an event, secondary sources take a step back to synthesize the information, often providing analysis, commentary, or critical interpretation. This is crucial in research as it allows researchers and readers to gauge the significance or implications of primary data, forming a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.