Articles on Record keeping

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Khipu no. 780 at Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino, Santiago, uses almost 600 cords in complicated arrangements to convey information. Permission to reproduce image provided to the author courtesy of Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino.

The Incas used mysterious stringy objects called ‘khipus’ to record data. We just got a step closer to understanding them

A new study reveals the most complex numeric connection ever made between two khipus. It could help lead us to even more clues about ancient Andean society.
Handwritten diaries and digital diaries both help preserve experiences and memories, but in different ways. luza studios/E+ via Getty Images

Handwritten diaries may feel old fashioned, but they offer insights that digital diaries just can’t match

As material objects, diaries give scholars an intimate look into their subjects’ lives, including handwriting and mementos. What if diaries in the future are nothing but insubstantial digital ghosts?

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