Which describes a primary source?

• A. An account of an event created by someone who took part in or witnessed the event
• B. A textbook
• C. An encyclopedia article
• D. A documentary

Answer: (A)

A primary source is a firsthand account created by someone who experienced the event. An account produced by a person who took part in or witnessed what happened fits this definition because it provides original, direct evidence from someone with personal involvement.

Textbooks and encyclopedia articles are designed to summarize, synthesize, or interpret information from many sources, which is why they are considered secondary sources. A documentary typically gathers footage and presents analysis after the event, also placing it in the secondary category, though documentaries with original, firsthand footage can sometimes be viewed differently in specific contexts.