Which of the following is considered a primary research source?

Focus groups are considered a primary research source because they involve direct engagement with a specific group of people to gather insights and data about their opinions, attitudes, and behaviors. This method allows researchers to collect firsthand information directly from the participants, which provides qualitative data that is rich in detail and context.

In contrast, trade publications, US Government Census data, and online articles tend to be categorized as secondary research sources. These involve the analysis or interpretation of data that has already been collected and published by others. While these sources can provide valuable information, they do not yield the direct insights that primary research methods, such as focus groups, achieve. By collecting original data, focus groups allow researchers to tailor their inquiries to specific objectives, making this method particularly useful for exploring new ideas or understanding complex issues in depth.