What are primary and secondary research methods?

Primary and secondary research methods are fundamental concepts in research design and methodology. Primary research involves the collection of original data directly related to the specific research question or objective. This can include methods like surveys, interviews, and experiments where researchers gather new information firsthand. The goal is to obtain data that specifically addresses the unique needs of the research rather than relying on previously collected information.

Secondary research, on the other hand, focuses on analyzing and interpreting existing data. This includes utilizing resources such as academic papers, market reports, and other published materials that have already been collected by other researchers or organizations. Secondary research is valuable because it provides context, insights, and background that can support or refine the primary research findings.

By understanding these definitions, it's clear why the choice describes primary research as involving the gathering of new data and secondary research as analyzing existing data. This distinction is crucial for students studying business foundations as it lays the groundwork for understanding how research informs decision-making in various business contexts.