Tertiary source

Definition

A tertiary source is a type of information resource that compiles and summarizes primary and secondary sources. It serves as a reference tool, providing an overview of a topic without presenting original research or firsthand accounts. Tertiary sources are commonly used in research methods and source evaluation as they help researchers locate relevant primary and secondary materials efficiently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tertiary sources include encyclopedias, almanacs, indexes, and databases that summarize information from primary and secondary sources.
2. These sources are valuable for quickly gaining an understanding of a subject without diving into extensive detail.
3. Tertiary sources often provide citations for the primary and secondary materials they summarize, making it easier for researchers to find original works.
4. While useful for initial research, tertiary sources may not always be the most reliable for in-depth analysis since they can contain generalizations or outdated information.
5. In academic writing and research projects, it's important to differentiate between the types of sources to ensure credible and thorough evidence is used.

Review Questions

• How do tertiary sources differ from primary and secondary sources in terms of their use in research?
  • Tertiary sources differ from primary and secondary sources primarily in their purpose and content. While primary sources provide original information or firsthand accounts, and secondary sources analyze or interpret those originals, tertiary sources compile and summarize information from both. Researchers typically use tertiary sources for a quick overview of a topic before diving deeper into primary and secondary resources for detailed information.
• What are some advantages and limitations of using tertiary sources in academic research?
  • The advantages of using tertiary sources include their ability to provide concise summaries of topics, saving researchers time while offering a foundation for further exploration. However, limitations arise from their potential lack of depth and reliability, as tertiary sources may oversimplify complex issues or be outdated. As a result, researchers should use them primarily for initial guidance while critically assessing primary and secondary sources for rigorous academic work.
• Evaluate the role of tertiary sources in the broader context of effective research methodologies. How do they contribute to the development of well-informed arguments?
  • Tertiary sources play a crucial role in effective research methodologies by acting as gateways to more detailed information. They help researchers quickly locate relevant primary and secondary sources needed to build strong arguments. By synthesizing existing knowledge, tertiary sources allow researchers to understand the landscape of a topic before crafting their own analyses. Ultimately, this foundational understanding aids in developing well-informed arguments that are supported by credible evidence from more specialized resources.

Related terms

primary source: An original material or firsthand account created at the time of an event or by someone with direct experience, such as diaries, interviews, or original research articles.

secondary source:

A document or recording that analyzes, interprets, or summarizes primary sources, such as textbooks, articles reviewing other research, or biographies.

bibliography: A list of sources or references used in the preparation of a work, often including primary, secondary, and tertiary sources to guide further research.