Amateur Tips
None of the tips I throw out mean that I think I have a “best” answer to anything. What they usually mean is that at some point I discovered something I wish I’d known/figured out years before. So I post it to (hopefully) save someone else a little time or help him or her learn a bit more effectively. And PLEASE, if you’ve discovered something you think might help others – including me – please post those in the comment section. If I get enough, I may include two sections; one for my suggestions and one for those from others.
Posted December 31, 2011 - Embarrassing Moments as an Amateur. I’ve interacted with professional historians a bit and am occasionally guilty of making big errors – real whoppers. Here’s my advice for what to do when something similar happens to you.
Posted January 15, 2011 - Tracking Sources. This is extremely basic, but something I haven’t done; keep track of source materials I have in my possession.
Posted October 30, 2010 - Why Study History? This explains why I feel that studying history (including methodology) is important, whether you intend to pursue a career in the field or not.
Posted September 26, 2010 - Useful Links. These are a few links to source materials including maps, images of artifacts and text sources which I’ve found useful.
Posted August 13, 2010 - My book buying technique. Or road map, guideline, or something. This is how I figure out what books belong on my shelves and which I can leave to reside on a bookseller’s.
Posted May 11, 2010 - My record-keeping system. A possible way of keeping track of information you’ve picked up. You might also want to take a look at a post from Jonathan Jarrett on how he and some other historians keep track of information they’ve read.
Posted April 19, 2010 - Mythbusters. Don’t fall into the trap of believing some of the common errors associated with the Middle Ages.
Posted April 16, 2010 - Library tips. The majority of people will know this already but your local library is often much more than just a place where they store books.
Posted March 31, 2010 - Is Historical Revisionism a Dirty Word? I frequently run across people who want to criticize newer books as engaging in “Historical Revision.” This post explains why I think revising history not only isn’t evil, but is necessary and even desirable in most cases.
