What is one main characteristic of secondary sources intended for academics and students?

One main characteristic of secondary sources intended for academics and students is that they analyze, interpret, or summarize primary sources rather than presenting original research or firsthand accounts. These sources, such as review articles, textbooks, and critiques, provide context, commentary, and synthesis of existing knowledge, making them valuable for understanding broader trends and developments in a field. They often include citations and references to primary sources, allowing readers to trace the original research and verify information.