Skip to content
    Sociology A-Level

    Primary data

    What Primary data means in Sociology A-Level, as defined for AQA.

    Definitions of Primary data

    Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.

    Check what you remember

    Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Primary data in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.

    Reference: AQA

    Information gathered directly by the researcher for their specific sociological purpose, such as conducting interviews or distributing questionnaires.
    AQA · Subject Content – A-level: Core themes - 4.3.2 Theory and Methods
    Data collected firsthand using questionnaires, interviews, participant and non-participant observation, and experiments.
    AQA · Subject Content – A-level: Core themes - 4.1.3 Theory and Methods
    Data collected firsthand by the researcher, for example by conducting an interview.
    AQA · Subject Content – A-level: Core themes - 4.3.2 Theory and Methods
    Information collected firsthand by the sociologist for their own research purposes.
    AQA · Subject Content – A-level: Core themes - 4.1.3 Theory and Methods

    Topics that use Primary data

    Related terms

    Using Primary data in the exam

    Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.

    Practise Sociology questions

    Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.

    Start free

    A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge

    All Sociology A-Level terms