If you need to analyse historical primary sources but aren’t sure where to start,  AM Research Skills could be the perfect resource to guide you.

• How should I analyse a photograph? 
• What kind of information can I find in correspondence, census data or diaries? 
• How can I study marginalised groups or disability? 
• How can I approach colonial history?  

Suggestions for all these questions and many more can be found in the Library’s eResource AM Research Skills. 

Featuring over 100 case studies, AM Research Skills (Foundations) can be used to develop, enhance or refresh skills in analysing primary sources. Case studies are categorised by type of resource, for example adverts, or theme such as memory. Within each case study invited experts share their advice about how to approach the topic. 

Alongside the case studies, AM Research Skills (Foundations) contains a collection of ‘Learning Tools’. These are interviews and how-to guides which suggest how primary sources can be found, evaluated and used within different areas of historical research. 

New for 2024 - Interrogating Colonial Documents and Narratives

Accessed via AM Research Skills, this module considers approaches to colonial history. Learning tools and case studies are included and these focus on how to conduct research with colonial archival documents. Many of the learning tools offer advice about reading against the grain and finding indigenous voices when researching with colonial archival materials.  

Discover AM Research Skills today and elevate your ability to research and analyse primary sources.

We always welcome feedback on any of our resources. If you have any comments or questions you can contact IS Enquiries at help@strath.ac.uk or comment below.