Rather than presenting new research, the secondary literature provides a compilation or evaluation of previously published research. It is important not to overlook these resources as they are often used to establish and explain the theoretical foundations of the field and can be great aids in understanding psychological literature.

The secondary literature is published in the form of books, textbooks, encyclopedias and other reference-type materials. These sources can be valuable in providing background information on a subject, identifying key ideas, and defining important terminology.