Primary vs Secondary Sources: A Practical Test
A primary source provides original evidence or a firsthand record relevant to your research question.

Keep a source log by creating one retrievable record per source when you first consult it.
To evaluate source credibility, first state the exact claim and its stakes. Identify the creator, publisher, source type, date, purpose, and relevant access.
Thinking ToolsAn observation records what was directly noticed, measured, or documented under stated conditions.
A primary source provides original evidence or a firsthand record relevant to your research question.