Primary sources are authoritative documents used in the preparation of later works. Creative Works Poetry, drama, novels, music, art Relics or Artifacts Jewelry, pottery, furniture, clothing, buildings Research Journals, books containing the results of basic research, proceedings A primary journal is one whose main purpose is the publication of the results of basic research. 77 Dec. 1993.
Secondary sources interpret primary sources.
They are one step removed from the event. A book about the effects of presidential decisions on American society, a critique of the Ernest Hemingway's novel, an interpretation of Robert Frost's poem, or an article describing the recent research that has been done on insomnia among college students are all examples of secondary source material.