How Do I Analyze a Source?

Click each box to learn how to analyze a primary source.

The process chart shows the following five regions connected by arrows:

Step 1: Observe

Take some time to really look at the source. Ask yourself:

• What is the first thing I notice?
• Do I notice anything unexpected or unusual?
• What do I notice that I can't explain?
• What do I notice that I didn't notice at first?

Toggle Audio Close popup

Step 2: Reflect

After you've studied the source, take some time to create and test hypotheses about it. You might ask yourself:

• Where did this came from?
• Why did someone make this?
• What was happening when this was made?
• Who was the audience for this item?
• What tool was used to create this?
• Why is this item so important?
• If somebody made this today, what would be different?
• What can I learn from examining this?

Toggle Audio Close popup

Step 3: Question

Now that you've had time to look at the source and reflect on it, it's time to ask questions that will bring you even further into the source.

If you need help getting started, try the 5 "Ws":

1. Who?
2. What?
3. When?
4. Where?
5. Why?
And, of course, How?