What distinguishes primary research from secondary research?

The distinction between primary research and secondary research lies primarily in the nature of the data used in each approach. Primary research involves the collection of new, original data that is gathered directly from the source by the researcher, through methods like surveys, interviews, experiments, or observations. This data is tailored to specific research questions and is thus highly relevant to the study at hand.

On the other hand, secondary research focuses on analyzing and interpreting data that has already been collected and published by others. This can include reviewing existing studies, reports, articles, and databases. By using secondary data, researchers benefit from the work that others have done, allowing them to build upon existing knowledge and insights without the need to gather new data themselves.

The other options mischaracterize the processes involved in primary and secondary research. One suggests that primary research relies on existing data, which contradicts the fundamental definition of primary research. Another option incorrectly denotes that primary research is exclusively qualitative, as it can also be quantitative depending on the methods used. Lastly, the notion that there is no distinction between the two types of research disregards the significant differences in data sourcing and methodology.