Question

which is the best definition of a primary source document?
a source that consists of original material, such as an interview.
a source that helps the researcher better understand a topic.
a source that helps the researcher answer a research question.
a source that contains a wide range of information on a topic.

Explanation:

To determine the best definition of a primary source document, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: Primary sources are original materials created at the time of the event or by the person involved, like an interview (original data).
• Option 2: This is too vague and could apply to secondary sources (e.g., a textbook summarizing topics) that help understanding but aren't original.
• Option 3: Both primary and secondary sources can help answer research questions, so this isn't unique to primary sources.
• Option 4: A source with wide - ranging info (like an encyclopedia) is a secondary or tertiary source, not primary.

So the first option correctly defines a primary source as original material.

Answer:

A. A source that consists of original material, such as an interview.