What type of research utilizes information that has already been collected for a different purpose?

• A. Primary research
• B. Field research
• C. Secondary research
• D. Quantitative research

Answer: (C)

Secondary research refers to the process of utilizing existing information that has already been gathered and compiled for purposes other than your current research needs. This type of research typically involves analyzing data sourced from books, academic articles, reports, and statistical databases, among other resources. The advantage of secondary research is that it can save time and resources, allowing researchers to build on previous knowledge without the need for original data collection.

The other types of research mentioned—primary research, field research, and quantitative research—focus on gathering new data. Primary research involves the collection of original data directly from sources through surveys, interviews, or experiments. Field research refers to collecting data in a real-world setting rather than a laboratory, often involving primary research techniques. Quantitative research emphasizes numerical data and statistical analysis, which can be derived from both primary and secondary sources. Understanding these definitions helps clarify why secondary research stands distinct as the correct answer in this context.