When writing a thesis paper, how many years back can your sources be?

Question

I have one that is 1989...is that too old?

Answer 1

That depends on what your writing about. So the answer is maybe.

Good Luck!!!

Answer 2

There is no rule about source ages. If you were writing a paper on the civil war then it would be appropriate for your source to be from the 1860s. If you are writing about modern computer dual or quad processors you probably would not want a source as old as 1989. So it depends on the subject.

Answer 3

Rule of thumb is that your source shouldn't be more than 5 to 10 (at the most) years ago. BUT, don't forget, it also depends on your topic. If you are writing about information where new discoveries have recently been made, for example, antioxidants, then you would most definately want a newer source. However, if you are writing about something like plant processes or parts that have been known about for quite some time, then the age of your source is justifiable!!!

Answer 4

okay i'm 14 and for me that is awhile ago. it should be like at least in the late 1990's. like 1995-2007. i am in speech/drama so i have heard about and i do know what a thesis is. it is an idea for your speech. but it all depends on what age group you are giving this speech to. i have no idea who you are so that's why i'm saying it depends on the age. if these people are in their 30's or 40's and older then they will like your speech because they were around in that year. 1989. it ALSO DEPENDS on what your speech is ABOUT. yes i know, i do type alot but that's just me.

Answer 5

I think a good rule is to say if you are writing about a technology or science-related topic, to stick to the most recent sources. But if you are dealing with a humanities/art/literature social studies type subject, it's not nearly as essential to have recent sources.

Answer 6

Most should be less than 5 unless it is adefining work for the subject area.