Evidence is comprised of specific examples or cited opinions of others which support orillustrate your points. Give several examples rather than just one. The evidence must also be relevant, reliable, and representative. Evidence comes from either primary or secondary sources. The primary source is the text on which you are writing, or documents that deal specifically with your topic.
Secondary sources are opinions or interpretation of others on the topic.
In literary essays especially, it is important that you understand the primary source and from it have formed your own opinion before you turn to secondary sources. Although secondary sources can help support your view, your instructor is still interested in what you think about the original work. When To Use Secondary Sources Not every assignment will require you to consult secondary sources. In some courses, instructors prefer not to assign research essays as they want you to come to your own conclusions about the material. If you do consult secondary sources, be sure not to rely heavily on them.