Overview
This lecture introduces the concept of commonplace books, their historical context, practical setup, and their benefits for active reading, learning, and synthesizing ideas.
What is a Commonplace Book?
- A commonplace book is a personal repository for storing ideas, facts, quotes, and information in one place.
- Commonplace books were popular during the Renaissance and are experiencing renewed interest.
- Many notable figures, including John Locke and Oscar Wilde, kept commonplace books.
- The practice involves compiling and categorizing content under personal headings.
Historical Context and Methods
- Commonplacing originated as an early modern academic and cultural practice.
- John Locke's 1685 method involves recording headings as they arise, rather than alphabetically.
- Indexing is important for finding information; Locke recommended alphabetical indices but simpler forms also work.
How to Set Up and Use a Commonplace Book
- Number the pages and reserve space at the start for an index.
- Write content under headings that emerge naturally during reading or conversation.
- Index each heading with corresponding page numbers for quick reference.
- Maintain one general book or multiple themed books (e.g., for specific projects or topics).
- Use a messy notebook for rough notes and transfer to a neat version regularly.
- Incorporate digital content by transcribing screenshots or notes from devices.
- Add vocabulary lists for new words.
- Read and review the commonplace book regularly, using spare moments.
Benefits of Commonplacing
- Encourages active, critical reading and deeper engagement with material.
- Helps retain, organize, and recall information and ideas efficiently.
- Facilitates memorization and use of key quotes or facts in conversation.
- Supports the development of eloquence and clearer, more innovative thinking.
- Enables synthesis of diverse information, revealing connections across various fields.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Commonplace Book — a notebook for collecting quotations, ideas, facts, and information, organized by headings.
- Index — a list at the start of the book showing headings and corresponding page numbers.
- Synoptic Thinking — connecting and synthesizing information from different sources to create new ideas.
- Active Reading — engaging with texts by seeking out material to record and reflect upon.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Start your own commonplace book by numbering pages and reserving space for an index.
- Regularly transfer notes from messy drafts or digital sources to your main commonplace book.
- Dedicate 5–10 minutes daily to updating and reviewing your commonplace book.
- Explore additional resources or classes on commonplacing for deeper learning.