Viitetasot

Viitetasot is a framework used in bibliographic evaluation to categorize references by their evidentiary value and role in scholarly work. The term combines viite, reference or citation, with taso, level, and is used primarily in Finnish academic and library contexts to help writers assess and present the authority of sources.

The concept envisions several hierarchical levels of sources. Typical levels include: primary sources, which provide original data or direct evidence (for example, original datasets, experimental reports, or firsthand documents); secondary sources, such as peer-reviewed articles that analyze or interpret primary data; and tertiary sources, including overviews, summaries, or reference works that compile and synthesize other materials. Some frameworks further distinguish between peer-reviewed publications, grey literature (such as policy reports and working papers), and non-scholarly sources. The exact naming and number of levels can vary by discipline and institution, but the core idea is to make the strength and nature of evidence explicit to readers.

In practice, viitetasot are used in teaching, research planning, and citation practices to promote transparency in source evaluation. They can guide students to favor higher-level sources for foundational claims while recognizing that lower-level sources may still be valuable for context, methodology, or niche topics. Critics note that rigid hierarchies may overlook disciplinary differences and the usefulness of certain non-traditional sources, underscoring the need for nuanced application.

See also: source evaluation, bibliographic ethics, scholarly publishing guidelines.