The Importance of Organizing Information: From the Library of Alexandria to Commonplace Books

The Importance of Organizing Information: From the Library of Alexandria to Commonplace Books

Introduction:

Around 300BC, the Ptolemies embarked on an ambitious project in Alexandria, known as the Library of Alexandria, with the goal of collecting all human knowledge in one place. This quest to organize information has continued throughout history, with various methods and tools being developed. In this article, we will explore the significance of organizing information and how it can enhance our knowledge and creativity.

The Power of Organized Information:

When information is organized and accessible, it allows people to build upon existing knowledge and make new discoveries. As Sir Isaac Newton famously said, "If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." By having access to the thinking and research of others in our field, we can advance our understanding and contribute to innovation.

Google and the Organization of Webpages:

Google revolutionized information accessibility with its search engine. One of the key factors in determining the quality of a web page is the use of backlinks, which led to high-quality search results. However, it's important to note that Google only provides a fraction of the webpages in its database, and we have limited control over what is presented to us. This highlights the need for alternative methods of organizing information beyond search engines.

The Commonplace Book:

A commonplace book is a valuable resource for collecting ideas, quotes, anecdotes, observations, and other pieces of information encountered in life. Many influential figures throughout history, such as Marcus Aurelius and Petrarch, maintained commonplace books. By reading widely and documenting what stands out, we can create our own repository of knowledge. This process, known as marginalia, allows for a conversation with the author and deepens our understanding of the material.

Expanding the Commonplace Book:

A commonplace book does not have to be limited to written material. It can include insights from movies, speeches, videos, and conversations. The key is to capture anything that resonates and can contribute to our personal growth. By organizing these diverse sources of information, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

The Importance of Categorization:

Categorizing the information in a commonplace book is essential for easy retrieval and making connections between different concepts. Ronald Reagan, for example, used a notecard system to organize his quotes. The categories within a commonplace book can be tailored to individual interests and areas of focus. As we search for valuable content, patterns and themes will emerge, guiding the creation of our own unique categories.

Actionable Advice:

• 1. Read widely: To build a comprehensive commonplace book, expose yourself to a variety of topics and perspectives. The more you read, the more material you will have to draw upon.

• 2. Take notes and annotate: Develop the habit of jotting down passages, words, anecdotes, and other noteworthy information as you read. This practice, known as marginalia, enhances comprehension and allows for a meaningful dialogue with the material.

• 3. Organize and categorize: Create a system for categorizing the information in your commonplace book. This can be done through physical notecards, digital folders, or any other method that suits your preference. Regularly review and update the categories to ensure easy access and discovery of related concepts.

Conclusion:

Organizing information is a powerful tool for acquiring knowledge and fostering creativity. From the Library of Alexandria to modern-day commonplace books, various methods have been employed to bring order to the vast sea of information. By adopting the practice of keeping a commonplace book and implementing the actionable advice provided, we can enhance our learning, make new connections, and unleash our full potential.