Secondary research

Definition

Secondary research involves the use of existing data and information that has already been collected, analyzed, and published by others. This type of research is essential for feature stories as it provides context, background information, and insights that can enhance the narrative and depth of the piece.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Secondary research can include sources such as academic journals, news articles, reports, and online databases, making it a rich resource for journalists.
2. It helps reporters to validate information or discover trends that may not be apparent from their primary research alone.
3. Secondary research can save time and resources by leveraging already available data instead of starting from scratch.
4. Feature stories often benefit from secondary research by including diverse perspectives or statistical data that enrich the storytelling.
5. This type of research is crucial for establishing credibility, as it allows writers to support their claims with evidence drawn from reputable sources.

Review Questions

• How does secondary research contribute to the depth and quality of a feature story?
  • Secondary research enhances the depth and quality of a feature story by providing context and background information that supports the narrative. It allows journalists to draw on a wide range of existing data and analyses, making their stories more informative and credible. By integrating secondary sources, reporters can offer diverse perspectives and highlight trends that may resonate with readers.
• In what ways can secondary research be utilized effectively when writing feature stories?
  • Secondary research can be utilized effectively in feature stories by identifying credible sources that provide relevant data or insights. Journalists can use this information to back up their arguments, provide statistics that illustrate key points, or present case studies that add depth to their narratives. Properly citing secondary sources also helps to enhance the trustworthiness of the story, ensuring readers have access to original materials.
• Evaluate the importance of distinguishing between primary and secondary research when developing a feature story.
  • Distinguishing between primary and secondary research is critical when developing a feature story because each serves distinct purposes. Primary research offers firsthand accounts and original data that can provide unique angles on a story, while secondary research supplies broader context and supports claims with established information. Understanding how to effectively balance both types allows journalists to create well-rounded narratives that engage readers while ensuring accuracy and depth.

Related terms

primary research:

Primary research refers to the collection of original data directly from sources through methods such as interviews, surveys, or experiments.

literature review: A literature review is a comprehensive summary of previous research on a specific topic, providing context and identifying gaps in existing knowledge.

data analysis: Data analysis involves systematically applying statistical and logical techniques to describe and illustrate, condense and recap, and evaluate data.