Science Research and Writing

Definitions

Primary Literature is scientific information published for the first time. It can take the form of:

• Primary research articles in peer-reviewed journals (click here for an example article)
• Theses and dissertations
• Lab reports

Secondary Literature consists of information sources that compile and organize information for you. It can take the form of:

• Review articles (literature reviews)
• Books (monographs)
• Encyclopedias

Relevant Links

University of New South Wales guide to primary and secondary sources

University of Toronto guide to writing lab reports