What is secondary research?

Secondary research refers to the use of data that has already been collected, analyzed, and published by other researchers or organizations. This type of research synthesizes existing information to uncover insights or support new inquiries without the need to gather primary data firsthand. Examples of secondary research sources include academic journals, government reports, market analysis studies, articles, and previously conducted surveys.

Option C clearly defines secondary research as research that is available to the public and has been carried out by others. It emphasizes the value of utilizing existing data to inform decisions, conduct analyses, or gain a broader understanding of a subject. In many cases, secondary research is a cost-effective way to gain insights without duplicating efforts, as it allows researchers to leverage the work done by others.

The essence of secondary research lies in building upon the knowledge that has already been established. This is crucial for fields like advertising, where understanding market conditions, consumer preferences, and competitive landscapes often relies on aggregated studies rather than the costly process of gathering new data directly through primary research methods.