In 2003 I created The Pattern Library reflecting the types of connections I saw between the data I was storing in PersonalBrain. I would type each link with the associated pattern. Today I wouldn’t burden myself with the link types. Still, I think the patterns are worth considering and have been upgraded to reflect my current thinking. More important to me is the Quantum OS Taxonomy of Note Types.
Each pattern describes a problem which occurs over and over again in our environment, and then describes the core of the solution to that problem, in such a way that you can use this solution a million times over, without ever doing it the same way twice.
The Pattern Library contains patterns for the use of Personal knowledge management software that remembers for you. These tools facilitate knowledge and learning through easy linking of topics to real world occurrences and forms the core of any Personal knowledge management strategy.
As with any piece of software there is great benefit in knowing how to use it for best advantage. Once way to do this is to become familiar with the patterns of use as described here. Patterns provide generalised methods which are applicable to a variety of situations. Understanding them saves both time and complexity.
The patterns are organised into three groups. Thinking, Connecting and Remembering.
- Thinking patterns — describe methods for quickly bringing information into a Second brain. They cover targeted research and informal browsing.
- Connecting patterns — explain how to build upon the power of knowledge already in a brain and connect it to existing ideas or generate new ones.
- Remembering patterns — Once a thought is in the Second brain and connected to others, how do you recall it. The Remembering Patterns help with navigation through a brain.