Understanding how to categorize sources is essential for effective research and evaluation. This outline organizes information sources into two fundamental categories—primary and secondary—and further breaks them down into meaningful subcategories to help you identify the type of source you have or need to find.
I. Information Sources
A. Primary Source
- Definition: Original materials created during the time period being studied
- Examples:
- Historical documents and records
- Diaries, journals, and letters
- Original research data
- Interviews and oral histories
- Artifacts and archaeological findings
- Photographs and artwork from the period
- Audio recordings and speeches
- Government documents
B. Secondary Source
- Definition: Materials that analyze, interpret, or discuss primary sources
1. Scholarly
- Definition: Materials created by experts for academic audiences
a. Peer-Reviewed
- Definition: Scholarly works evaluated by experts before publication
- Examples:
- Academic journal articles
- Research papers in scholarly publications
- Conference proceedings reviewed by experts
- Books published by university presses
b. Not Peer-Reviewed
- Definition: Scholarly works not evaluated by experts before publication
- Examples:
- Some academic books
- Working papers
- Preprints
- Some conference presentations
- Dissertations and theses
2. Popular
- Definition: Materials intended for general public consumption
- Examples:
- Newspapers and news websites
- General interest magazines
- Documentaries and television programs
- Trade books (non-fiction for general readers)
- General interest websites and blogs
3. Trade
- Definition: Publications targeting specific industries or professions
- Examples:
- Industry magazines and newsletters
- Professional journals (non-peer-reviewed)
- Trade association publications
- Technical reports and white papers
- Professional blogs and websites
Explore the interactive graphic below for additional information about types of sources.
