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Primary Sources: Citing Primary Sources

How is a primary source important for research? What is the difference between a primary source and a secondary source? How do I find primary sources? What is the best way to use them for my research? What is a Document Analysis and how do I do it?

What to Include in a Citation

Primary sources need citations, too!  The creators need credit for their work, and the information can be important in a document analysis.  Include the following information in your citation.  Be sure to check your citation manual for the correct format.

What kind of document is it?

Who created this document?

When was this document created?

Where did you find this document?

Citation Styles

For information about citing primary sources, visit the Library of Congress.  View examples for each citation style.

MLA

Chicago

APA