22 Critical Thinking: Source Types

Let’s think about these categories a little more. When conducting research, it is often suggested that we begin looking at tertiary sources, then secondary, and finally primary. Why is it helpful for students researching to start with tertiary sources, such as reference materials, textbooks, and articles from established, reliable magazines?

When resources are created, it starts with primary, then secondary, and finally tertiary. Why do you think this opposite relationship exists between those doing research and those creating resources?