Cutter, Dewey, and Universal Decimal classification systems

# **Classification Systems** Dewey, Cutter, and Universal Decimal are three related but distinct **systems** for organizing recorded knowledge, all emerging from late‑19th/early‑20th century librarianship. Each offers a different answer to “how do you map all of knowledge into a single shelf order?”[britannica+3](https://www.britannica.com/science/library-classification) --- ## Historical overviews - **Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC)** - Conceived by Melvil Dewey in 1873 and first published in 1876 as a general classification for library shelf arrangement.[library.nicc+1](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1238185) - Introduced a decimal numeric notation, relative location on shelves, and a “relative index,” and has been continuously revised; it is now the most widely used general library classification worldwide.[wikipedia+2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification) - Later became the structural basis for several national schemes and strongly influenced the development of the Universal Decimal Classification.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - **Cutter Expansive Classification (EC)** - Devised by Charles Ammi Cutter and issued in stages between 1891 and 1911 as a system that could “expand” with the size of the library.[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - Designed as seven successively more detailed “expansions,” from very small collections to very large research libraries, with clear instructions for moving from one level to another.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) - Never completed in full and never widely adopted; however, its top‑level structure and its alphanumeric notation influenced the Library of Congress Classification, and its “Cutter numbers” for author marks remain standard book‑number practice.[forbeslibrary+2](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) - **Universal Decimal Classification (UDC)** - Developed in Europe around 1905–1907 by Otlet and La Fontaine’s documentation movement as an “expanded Dewey” for international bibliographic control.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - First major edition appeared in French as _Manuel du Répertoire bibliographique universel_ (ca. 1905–1907), based on the 5th edition of DDC but extensively elaborated.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - Evolved into a highly faceted, syntactic system used especially in specialized, technical, and documentation contexts, maintained today by the UDC Consortium.[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) --- ## System summaries - **Dewey Decimal Classification** - General, enumerative scheme dividing knowledge into ten main numeric classes 000–900, each subdivided into ten divisions and ten sections using decimal notation.[oclc+2](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/versions/print/intro.pdf) - Notation is purely numeric (Indo‑Arabic digits); decimals allow theoretically infinite expansion, supplemented by common tables (e.g., place, time, language, form).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification) - Mostly enumerative (pre‑listed subjects) but with limited synthetic features where base numbers combine with tables; each full call number combines a Dewey class number with a separate book number (often a Cutter author mark).[planfl+2](https://planfl.org/handouts/20220823fay4.pdf) - **Cutter Expansive Classification** - General classification whose core idea is seven nested “expansions,” each a more detailed version of the same top‑level map of knowledge.[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - Uses an alphanumeric notation (letters for broad classes, followed by combinations of letters and numbers for subjects and book numbers) and was designed to be relatively short and mnemonic.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) - Largely enumerative, but with flexible, specific schedules and a systematic approach to “Cutter numbers” that separate subject class marks from author/title marks.[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - **Universal Decimal Classification** - General, synthetic/faceted classification covering all knowledge in ten main numeric classes 0–9, with class 4 intentionally left vacant.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - Uses Dewey‑like numeric notation as a base but adds extensive “auxiliary” tables and punctuation (e.g., colon, plus, slash, parentheses) to express complex subject relations, form, place, language, time, and other facets.[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - Highly synthetic: class marks are constructed, not merely selected, allowing expressive multi‑aspect combinations far beyond standard DDC practice.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) --- ## Dewey: outline of how it classifies knowledge ## Top‑level and schedules - **Ten main classes (1st summary)**[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/ddc23-summaries.pdf) - 000 Computer science, information & general works - 100 Philosophy & psychology - 200 Religion - 300 Social sciences - 400 Language - 500 Science - 600 Technology - 700 Arts & recreation - 800 Literature - 900 History & geography - Each main class is divided into ten **divisions** (e.g., 510 Mathematics, 520 Astronomy) and each division into ten **sections** (e.g., 512 Algebra, 513 Arithmetic).[oclc+2](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/versions/print/intro.pdf) - Schedules list thousands of more specific topics under these hierarchies; numbers are hierarchical, so a longer number implies all the meaning of its shorter prefix.[socialsci.libretexts+1](https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Courses/Sacramento_City_College/LIBT331:_Library_Cataloging_Procedures_\(Li\)/01:_Cataloging_Rules_and_Tools/1.04:_Classification_systems_-_Library_of_Congress/1.4.03:_Introduction_to_the_Dewey_Decimal_Classification) ## Tables and synthesis - **Common tables** (applied across classes) provide: - Standard subdivisions (e.g., form, treatment) - Geographic areas, including continents, countries, regions - Periods (time), language, ethnic or national groups, etc.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification) - A classifier: - Chooses the most specific base number from schedules. - Synthesizes with table notations (when permitted) to express place, time, form, etc., using decimal expansion.[socialsci.libretexts+1](https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Courses/Sacramento_City_College/LIBT331:_Library_Cataloging_Procedures_\(Li\)/01:_Cataloging_Rules_and_Tools/1.04:_Classification_systems_-_Library_of_Congress/1.4.03:_Introduction_to_the_Dewey_Decimal_Classification) - Dewey also provides **rules of application** (e.g., “class by discipline,” “first‑of‑two rule”) to decide where works on multiple subjects go when synthesis is not used.[planfl+1](https://planfl.org/handouts/20220823fay4.pdf) ## Call number structure in practice - A typical call number combines: - Dewey **class number**: encodes subject and sometimes form/place/time. - **Book number**: a Cutter‑style alphanumeric code representing author and/or title to keep items in a unique, alphabetical order within the same subject.[library.nicc+2](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1238185) - Fiction can be shelved within 800s or separated and arranged alphabetically; Dewey supports either, though many public libraries opt for a separate alpha fiction section.[library.nicc+1](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1238185) --- ## Cutter: outline of how it classifies knowledge ## Seven expansions and top‑level map - Cutter’s EC is built as **seven concentric schedules**, each reusing the same basic structure but with increasing detail:[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) - Expansion 1: Very small libraries; broad, coarse classes. - Expansions 2–4: Progressive refinement for growing public or academic libraries. - Expansions 5–7: Very fine‑grained for large research collections (parts of expansion 7 were never fully completed before Cutter’s death).[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - The top‑level arrangement of knowledge (letters for main classes) anticipates what later became the Library of Congress Classification’s 21 lettered classes.[libguides.ala+1](https://libguides.ala.org/catalogingtools/classification) - Broad areas (examples, not exhaustive) resemble: - A: General works - B: Philosophy and religion - C–D: History, geography, travel - E–H: Social sciences - J–K: Political science and law - L–P: Education, language, literature - Q–S: Science and medicine - T–Z: Useful arts, fine arts, music, bibliography, etc. (Exact letter assignments vary; LCC formalized and expanded the pattern.)[libguides.ala+1](https://libguides.ala.org/catalogingtools/classification) ## Notation and use of Cutter numbers - **Class mark**: - A short sequence combining **letters (for main subject)** and sometimes additional letters or digits for subdivisions.[forbeslibrary+1](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) - Designed to be mnemonic and “expansive”: you could insert more specific letters/numbers as collections grew without breaking the whole system.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) - **Book number / Cutter number**: - A separate alphanumeric code (often a letter plus numbers) that encodes the **author’s name** and sometimes title within a given class.[forbeslibrary+1](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) - Cutter devised standardized “Cutter tables” to translate letter sequences in names into compact, sortable codes; those tables became standard across many systems.[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - In practice, a full call number in EC: - Starts with the **class letters** (subject). - Is followed by the **Cutter book number** (author or work), sometimes additional marks for edition, copy, or volume.[forbeslibrary+1](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) ## Subject structure and policies - EC is **enumerative but expandable**: - Schedules list specific subjects under each lettered class. - Libraries progress to a higher expansion when they need more granularity, re‑cutting their collection following Cutter’s migration instructions.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) - Relationships between subjects are expressed mainly by: - Carefully arranged **alphabetic classes** and their sub‑letters. - Further subdivision by topographic, chronological, or form aspects, though without the extensive faceted syntax of UDC.[journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) - Because the system was never fully completed, there is less modern guidance and fewer contemporary rule sets than for DDC or UDC, which contributed to its decline in favor of LCC and Dewey.[forbeslibrary+1](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) --- ## UDC: outline of how it classifies knowledge ## Main tables (numeric backbone) - UDC uses **ten main classes** numbered 0–9, with “4” intentionally left empty:[ebooks.inflibnet+2](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - 0 Generalities. Science and knowledge. Organization. Computer science. Information - 1 Philosophy. Psychology - 2 Religion. Theology - 3 Social sciences - 4 (Vacant) - 5 Mathematics and natural sciences - 6 Applied sciences. Medicine. Technology - 7 Arts. Entertainment. Sport - 8 Language. Linguistics. Literature - 9 Geography. Biography. History - These main tables (or schedules) are hierarchical and contain more than 60,000 subdivisions for disciplines, subdisciplines, and specific topics.[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) ## Common auxiliaries (facets usable anywhere) - UDC introduces **common auxiliary tables** that can be combined with any main class:[wikipedia+2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - **Place**: parentheses with numbers, e.g., (410) for England (illustrative pattern; specific codes come from the table). - **Time**: quotations or numeric ranges to express historical periods. - **Form**: type of document (e.g., dictionaries, atlases, textbooks). - **Language**: codes for the language of the text. - **Persons, ethnic groups, etc.**: standardized attributes reused across fields. - These auxiliaries are **aspect‑free** (not tied to one discipline) and can be attached as needed to refine any base number.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) ## Special auxiliaries and syntactic symbols - At the beginning of each main class, UDC lists **special auxiliaries** that express recurring aspects within that discipline (e.g., methods in science, types of institutions in social sciences).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - UDC uses a set of **connecting symbols** that turn the notation into a genuine syntax:[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `:` (colon) for **relation** or coordination (subject A in relation to subject B). - `/` (slash) for **consecutive ranges** (e.g., topics or places from X to Y). - `+` (plus) for **addition** (A plus B treated together, but not as a range). - `=` for **language** auxiliary (e.g., =111 for English, depending on table). - `()` for **place** auxiliaries and some other facets. - This syntax allows complex, multi‑aspect subject strings, such as “technology of renewable energy in Europe in the 21st century, in conference proceedings format,” to be expressed in a single compound UDC number by layering topic, place, time, and form.[ebooks.inflibnet+2](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) ## Classification process and resulting notation - Classifiers: - Choose a **base subject number** from the main tables (most specific appropriate class). - Add **special auxiliaries** for method, form, institutional context, etc., as required. - Add **common auxiliaries** for place, time, language, and other general facets. - Use **syntactic connectors** to represent relations between multiple subjects or ranges (e.g., colon for interaction, plus for juxtaposition).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - The result is a **highly expressive, synthetic string**, readable as a mini‑language describing the content, scope, and context of a work, rather than just a simple shelf address.[udcc+2](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) --- ## Structural comparison of knowledge mapping |Aspect|Dewey Decimal (DDC)|Cutter Expansive (EC)|Universal Decimal (UDC)| |---|---|---|---| |Origin|1873–1876, Melvil Dewey, USA [oclc](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/ddc23-summaries.pdf)|1890s–1910s, Charles A. Cutter, USA [journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654)|1905–1907 onward, Otlet & La Fontaine, Europe [ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/)| |Top‑level classes|10 numeric classes 000–900 [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Lettered classes, basis of later LCC map [wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification)|10 numeric classes 0–9; 4 vacant [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| |Notation|Pure decimals (Arabic digits) [wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Letters + letters/digits [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification)|Decimals plus punctuation and auxiliaries [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| |Basic type|Enumerative with limited synthesis [wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Enumerative, “expansive” levels [journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654)|Highly synthetic/faceted [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| |Growth mechanism|Add new numbers and table subdivisions [wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Move to a higher expansion schedule [journals.ala](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654)|Add new subclasses and auxiliaries; combine syntactically [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| |Auxiliaries / facets|Common tables (place, time, language, form) [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Largely built into schedules; no full faceted syntax [journals.ala+1](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654)|Extensive common and special auxiliaries [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| |Influence on others|Basis for UDC; inspired national variants [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification)|Basis for Library of Congress Classification [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification)|Major tool in documentation and indexing [wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification)| This gives you the historical context, core design, and working outlines of how each scheme organizes “the world of knowledge” into a classification grid you can navigate and, if you like, adapt conceptually for your own note‑taking systems. 1. [https://www.britannica.com/science/library-classification](https://www.britannica.com/science/library-classification) 2. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) 3. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cutter_Expansive_Classification) 4. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/ddc23-summaries.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/ddc23-summaries.pdf) 5. [https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1238185](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1238185) 6. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dewey_Decimal_Classification) 7. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/versions/print/intro.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/versions/print/intro.pdf) 8. [https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) 9. [https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654](https://journals.ala.org/index.php/lrts/article/download/5419/6654) 10. [https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/](https://forbeslibrary.org/help/cutter-classification/) 11. [https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) 12. [https://planfl.org/handouts/20220823fay4.pdf](https://planfl.org/handouts/20220823fay4.pdf) 13. [https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Courses/Sacramento_City_College/LIBT331:_Library_Cataloging_Procedures_(Li)/01:_Cataloging_Rules_and_Tools/1.04:_Classification_systems_-_Library_of_Congress/1.4.03:_Introduction_to_the_Dewey_Decimal_Classification](https://socialsci.libretexts.org/Courses/Sacramento_City_College/LIBT331:_Library_Cataloging_Procedures_\(Li\)/01:_Cataloging_Rules_and_Tools/1.04:_Classification_systems_-_Library_of_Congress/1.4.03:_Introduction_to_the_Dewey_Decimal_Classification) 14. [https://libguides.ala.org/catalogingtools/classification](https://libguides.ala.org/catalogingtools/classification) 15. [https://www.librarianshipstudies.com/2017/11/library-of-congress-classification.html](https://www.librarianshipstudies.com/2017/11/library-of-congress-classification.html) 16. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/727424665938612/posts/1042214667792942/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/727424665938612/posts/1042214667792942/) 17. [https://shorter.libguides.com/Dewey](https://shorter.libguides.com/Dewey) 18. [https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/Blog/Posts/136/ALPLM/2021/7/How-do-you-organize-a-whole-world-of-information/blog-post/](https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/Blog/Posts/136/ALPLM/2021/7/How-do-you-organize-a-whole-world-of-information/blog-post/) 19. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) 20. [https://vocabularyserver.com/udc/en/?tema=652](https://vocabularyserver.com/udc/en/?tema=652) --- # **Examples of Dewey numbers for literature science and history** Here are some concrete Dewey Decimal examples in the three areas you asked about. All numbers are standard examples taken from widely used Dewey summaries and library guides.[wikipedia+3](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) --- ## Literature (800s) - 800 – Literature, rhetoric, and criticism (general works about literature).[research.moreheadstate+1](https://research.moreheadstate.edu/c.php?g=1234694&p=9035262) - 808 – Rhetoric and collections of literary texts from more than two literatures.[library.illinois+1](https://www.library.illinois.edu/infosci/research/guides/dewey/) - 810 – American literature in English (all forms).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 811 – American poetry in English. - 812 – American drama in English. - 813 – American fiction in English. - 820 – English and Old English (Anglo‑Saxon) literatures.[library.nicc+1](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1307631&p=10676431) - 821 – English poetry. - 822 – English drama. - 823 – English fiction (e.g., a Harry Potter novel is often classed as 823.914 + Cutter).[libguides.utep+1](https://libguides.utep.edu/c.php?g=430427&p=2935135) --- ## Science (500s) - 500 – Natural sciences and mathematics (general science).[oakland+1](https://www.oakland.edu/Assets/upload/docs/SEHS/ERL/Documents/Help/ERL-materials-using-the-Dewey-Decimal-System.pdf) - 510 – Mathematics (general and pure math).[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 520 – Astronomy and allied sciences.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 530 – Physics.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 540 – Chemistry and allied sciences.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 550 – Earth sciences and geology.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 560 – Paleontology; paleozoology.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 570 – Life sciences; biology.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 580 – Plants (botany).[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 590 – Animals (zoology).[oakland](https://www.oakland.edu/Assets/upload/docs/SEHS/ERL/Documents/Help/ERL-materials-using-the-Dewey-Decimal-System.pdf) - 595.789 – Butterflies (one classic expanded example of a very specific zoology number).[oakland](https://www.oakland.edu/Assets/upload/docs/SEHS/ERL/Documents/Help/ERL-materials-using-the-Dewey-Decimal-System.pdf) --- ## History (mainly 900s) - 900 – History, geography, and auxiliary disciplines (general).[libguides.utep+2](https://libguides.utep.edu/c.php?g=430427&p=2935135) - 909 – World history.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 910 – Geography and travel.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 920 – Biography, genealogy, insignia.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 930 – History of the ancient world (to about 499 CE).[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) - 940 – History of Europe.[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) - 950 – History of Asia.[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) - 960 – History of Africa.[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) - 970 – History of North America (including the United States).[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 980 – History of South America.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) - 990 – History of other parts of the world; extraterrestrial worlds.[wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) If you want, the next step would be to walk through a few fully built call numbers (e.g., a specific English novel, a popular‑science astronomy book, and a U.S. history survey) and dissect every element. 1. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/dewey/resources/summaries/deweysummaries.pdf) 2. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Dewey_Decimal_classes) 3. [https://www.library.illinois.edu/infosci/research/guides/dewey/](https://www.library.illinois.edu/infosci/research/guides/dewey/) 4. [https://ccad.libguides.com/literature/dewey](https://ccad.libguides.com/literature/dewey) 5. [https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1307631&p=10676431](https://library.nicc.edu/c.php?g=1307631&p=10676431) 6. [https://www.oakland.edu/Assets/upload/docs/SEHS/ERL/Documents/Help/ERL-materials-using-the-Dewey-Decimal-System.pdf](https://www.oakland.edu/Assets/upload/docs/SEHS/ERL/Documents/Help/ERL-materials-using-the-Dewey-Decimal-System.pdf) 7. [https://libguides.northwestern.edu/callnumbers/dewey](https://libguides.northwestern.edu/callnumbers/dewey) 8. [https://libguides.utep.edu/c.php?g=430427&p=2935135](https://libguides.utep.edu/c.php?g=430427&p=2935135) 9. [https://research.moreheadstate.edu/c.php?g=1234694&p=9035262](https://research.moreheadstate.edu/c.php?g=1234694&p=9035262) 10. [https://libguides.pratt.edu/finding-books/reading-dewey-call-numbers](https://libguides.pratt.edu/finding-books/reading-dewey-call-numbers) --- # **How to construct a Universal Decimal composite notation** A Universal Decimal Classification (UDC) composite notation is built by starting from a simple subject number and then **adding** auxiliaries and connecting signs (colon, plus, slash, parentheses, etc.) in a fixed order to express facets like place, time, form, and relationships. The goal is to turn one base class into a compact “sentence” that encodes what the document is about, where/when it applies, in what form, and how multiple subjects are related.[wikipedia+2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) --- ## 1. Ingredients of a composite UDC number - **Base (main) number** - Chosen from the main UDC tables 0–9 (e.g., 62 for engineering; 34 for law).[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - Longer numbers are more specific; each extra digit refines the subject.[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) - **Common auxiliaries (can attach to any class)**[egyankosh+2](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - Place: in parentheses, e.g. (410) for England (example pattern). - Time/period: quotation‑style or numeric codes for dates and periods. - Form: codes for textbooks, dictionaries, standards, etc.; e.g. (075) for textbooks.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - Language: codes with “=” sign, e.g. =111 for English (pattern from examples).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) - **Special auxiliaries** - Listed with particular classes (e.g. under 62 for technology) to express recurrent aspects like components, processes, equipment, institutions.[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - Often use hyphen series -1/-9, apostrophe series, or “.0” subdivisions that can be combined with the main number.[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - **Connecting symbols (syntactic operators)**[wikipedia+2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - `:` relation/coordination between two subjects (A in relation to B). - `+` addition of subjects (A and B treated together). - `/` range (A through B as a continuous span). - `[ ]` grouping to control how combinations are parsed. - Parentheses `( )` for auxiliaries of place, some other facets. - `=` preceding language auxiliaries. --- ## 2. General construction steps In practice, you construct a UDC composite notation roughly as follows (local rules and examples may refine this): 1. **Identify the primary subject and choose a base number** - Example: “Textbooks of Christian theology in English” → core discipline is religion/theology: base `2`.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) 2. **Determine whether more specific main numbers are needed** - If the schedules give a specific number for “Christian theology” (e.g., a subclass under 23–27 range), select that instead of the bare `2`.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - For the textbook example, a generic religious‑theology base combined with form may be acceptable: `2`.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) 3. **Add special auxiliaries (if applicable)** - For technology, medicine, etc., you may first add hyphen series like `62-1` (fundamentals) or `62-9` (kinds of products), depending on the concept.[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - For pure “textbook” as a document form, you usually use a **common** form auxiliary, not a special one; so this step can be skipped in the example.[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) 4. **Add common auxiliaries in the recommended order** - UDC practice usually treats **form, place, time, language** as layered facets; local manuals specify the exact citation order, but the pattern shown in standard examples is: main number + form + language (and/or place/time, where relevant).[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - In the official example: - (075) = textbooks (form).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - =111 = English (language).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) Combined: `2(075)=111` = “Religious works: textbooks in English.”[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) 5. **When there are multiple subjects, link them with connecting signs** - For **related subjects**: `:` - `34:32` means “law in relation to politics” (or a combined treatment of law and politics, depending on local interpretation).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) - For **juxtaposed subjects**: `+` - `622+669` might mean a work covering both mining (622) and metallurgy (669) without implying a specific directional relation.[sciencedirect+1](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/decimal-notation) - For **ranges**: `/` - `94(410/411)` could denote history of a range of places from one geographic code to another, if the place table supports those numbers.[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) 6. **Use brackets to group when the structure would otherwise be ambiguous** - Example pattern: `62(410)(=111)[+...another complex block...]` where `[ ]` ensures the cataloguer and parser know which parts belong together.[udcc+2](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) --- ## 3. Worked example: a more complex composite Consider a hypothetical subject: “English‑language university textbooks on environmental engineering in Europe in the late 20th century.” A possible construction logic (exact numbers depend on the specific UDC tables used): 1. **Base number: environmental engineering** - Assume environmental engineering is a subdivision of technology under class 62 (engineering) or 628 (sanitary/environmental engineering); use the most specific relevant number, e.g. `628`.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) 2. **Form: textbooks** - Add common auxiliary of form `(075)` (textbooks).[wikipedia+1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) - So far: `628(075)` 3. **Place: Europe** - Add place auxiliary for Europe `(4...)` according to the place table; e.g., something like `(4)` as a generic Europe code in some tables.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - `628(4)(075)` (or `628(075)(4)` depending on local citation order; manuals decide order, but form often comes early).[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) 4. **Time: late 20th century** - Use the time auxiliary (quoted period number) for, say, 1945–1999 or 1960–1999, depending on the table; e.g. `"19"` as an illustrative pattern.[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - `628(4)"19"(075)` 5. **Language: English** - Add language auxiliary `=111` (English).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) - `628(4)"19"(075)=111` This composite notation can be read as: “Environmental engineering in Europe, late 20th century, textbooks, in English.”[wikipedia+2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) --- ## 4. General heuristics you can adapt Even without a full UDC schedule in front of you, you can apply the underlying **pattern** to your own classification or note‑tagging: - Start with the **core discipline** (1 main number). - Add a **specific topic** number if available (longer, more precise). - Layer on facets in a consistent order: - Document form (textbook, dictionary, standard). - Place. - Time/period. - Language. - When multiple subjects are involved: - Use a “relation” operator (like a colon) when A is about B. - Use an “addition” operator (like a plus) when A and B are simply co‑covered. - Use ranges when you genuinely mean a continuous span. In a real library, the exact symbols and their order must follow the official UDC manuals and national practice, but this stepwise approach captures how composite notations are conceptually constructed.[udcc+2](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) 1. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBzHU-ZdIFg](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBzHU-ZdIFg) 2. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) 3. [https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) 4. [https://www.ukoln.ac.uk/metadata/desire/classification/class_3.htm](https://www.ukoln.ac.uk/metadata/desire/classification/class_3.htm) 5. [https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) 6. [https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/decimal-notation](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/decimal-notation) 7. [https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) 8. [https://www.lisquiz.com/2025/09/standard-schemes-of-classification-and.html](https://www.lisquiz.com/2025/09/standard-schemes-of-classification-and.html) 9. [https://sigir.org/files/museum/ASLIB%20CRANFIELD%20RESEARCH%20PROJECT-1960/pdfs/p30-chapter_4.pdf](https://sigir.org/files/museum/ASLIB%20CRANFIELD%20RESEARCH%20PROJECT-1960/pdfs/p30-chapter_4.pdf) 10. [https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/universal-decimal-classificationudc/251332432](https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/universal-decimal-classificationudc/251332432) --- # **Examples of UDC composite numbers for science and society** UDC composite numbers for science and society combine a science (class 5 or 6) or social‑science (class 3) base with auxiliaries and relation signs like `:`, `+`, `/`, `( )`, and `"`. Below are concrete, modeled examples that follow published patterns and illustrate how this looks in practice.[udcc+2](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) --- ## Science‑oriented composite examples - **Relationship between road transport and global warming** - `656.1:504.7` - 656.1 = road transport; 504.7 = global warming of atmosphere.[w3](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) - The colon `:` expresses “road transport in relation to global warming.”[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - **Textbook on environmental science in Europe in the 21st century** - Example pattern: `504(4)"20"(075)` - 504 = environmental science (environmental problems, natural environment).[lisedunetwork+1](https://www.lisedunetwork.com/universal-decimal-classification-udc/) - `(4)` = Europe (illustrative place code from common auxiliaries of place).[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - `"20"` = 21st century (time, from common auxiliaries of time).[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - `(075)` = textbook (common auxiliary of form).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - **Journal of science and technology** (science + technology, periodical) - Example pattern (from a published UDC illustration): `[5+6](05)` - 5 = natural sciences; 6 = applied sciences/technology.[publications.drdo](https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501) - `5+6` = science plus technology together.[udcsummary+2](https://udcsummary.info/) - `(05)` = serials and periodicals (form).[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - **English‑language algebra textbook** - Example pattern: `512(075)=111` - 512 = algebra.[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/500.pdf) - `(075)` = textbook.[egyankosh](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - `=111` = English language (common auxiliary of language).[udcc+1](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) --- ## Society‑oriented composite examples - **Relationship between education and religion** - `37:2` - 37 = education; 2 = religion.[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `:` expresses “education in relation to religion” (e.g., religious education, policy, influence).[udcsummary+1](https://udcsummary.info/) - **History of the United Kingdom in the 20th century, textbook** - `94(410)"19"(075)` - 94 = history.[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `(410)` = United Kingdom (place, from place auxiliaries).[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `"19"` = 20th century.[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - `(075)` = textbook.[egyankosh+1](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) - **Social aspects of climate change** - Example pattern: `304.2:504.7` - 304.2 = social structure, social conditions, ways of life (in many UDC layouts).[studeersnel+1](https://www.studeersnel.nl/nl/document/rijksuniversiteit-groningen/soc-and-med-sciences-in-hum-action/detailed-overview-of-universal-decimal-classification-udc-and-its-features/123775399) - 504.7 = global warming / climate‑related environmental issues.[w3+1](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) - `:` expresses “social conditions in relation to climate change.”[w3+1](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) - **Religion and science (general relation)** - `2:5` - 2 = religion; 5 = natural sciences.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - Expresses works about the relationship between religion and science.[publications.drdo](https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501) - **Social science resources on the internet, by region** - Pattern like: `3(100/.7)` - 3 = social sciences.[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `(100/.7)` = a range of place codes, e.g., from world or a continent to another, using `/` as a consecutive extension.[udcsummary+1](https://udcsummary.info/) - Indicates coverage of social sciences across a range of regions. --- ## Mixed science–society composite examples - **Impact of biotechnology on society** - Example pattern: `578:3` or more specifically `57.086:3` - 57 / 578 = biology / microbiology; 57.086 or a similar subdivision = biotechnology (depending on the schedule).[lisedunetwork+1](https://www.lisedunetwork.com/universal-decimal-classification-udc/) - 3 = social sciences.[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - `:` expresses “biotechnology in relation to society” (ethics, policy, social impact).[w3+1](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) - **Education about environmental protection** - Example pattern: `37:504` - 37 = education.[udcc](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) - 504 = environmental science / environmental issues.[ebooks.inflibnet+1](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) - Expresses educational aspects of environmental protection.[w3+1](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) - **Science and technology policy** - Example pattern: `3.3:5/6` - 3.3 = political science and public policy (within social sciences).[oclc+1](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/300.pdf) - `5/6` = consecutive extension covering classes 5 through 6 (science through technology).[publications.drdo+1](https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501) - Composite denotes public policy related to science and technology.[publications.drdo+2](https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501) These examples show the core patterns: pick a science or society base number, then use `+`, `:`, `/`, and auxiliaries `( )`, `" "`, and `=` to encode relations, ranges, place, time, form, and language in a single expressive notation.[udcsummary+3](https://udcsummary.info/) 1. [https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_structure) 2. [https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC](https://www.w3.org/2006/07/SWD/wiki/EucUDC) 3. [https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501](https://publications.drdo.gov.in/ojs/index.php/djlit/article/download/217/120/501) 4. [https://www.lisedunetwork.com/universal-decimal-classification-udc/](https://www.lisedunetwork.com/universal-decimal-classification-udc/) 5. [https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/](https://ebooks.inflibnet.ac.in/lisp2/chapter/introduction-to-major-classification-systems-structure-and-features-of-udc/) 6. [https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf](https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/33086/1/Unit-12.pdf) 7. [https://udcsummary.info](https://udcsummary.info/) 8. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/500.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/500.pdf) 9. [https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=about_notation) 10. [https://www.studeersnel.nl/nl/document/rijksuniversiteit-groningen/soc-and-med-sciences-in-hum-action/detailed-overview-of-universal-decimal-classification-udc-and-its-features/123775399](https://www.studeersnel.nl/nl/document/rijksuniversiteit-groningen/soc-and-med-sciences-in-hum-action/detailed-overview-of-universal-decimal-classification-udc-and-its-features/123775399) 11. [https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/300.pdf](https://www.oclc.org/content/dam/oclc/webdewey/help/300.pdf) 12. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Decimal_Classification) 13. [https://www.ukoln.ac.uk/metadata/desire/classification/class_3.htm](https://www.ukoln.ac.uk/metadata/desire/classification/class_3.htm) 14. [https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/deciphering-universal-decimal-classification-system-guide-robert-cope-ea1he](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/deciphering-universal-decimal-classification-system-guide-robert-cope-ea1he) 15. [https://jdih.kpu.go.id/data-kabko/singkawang/data_monografi/scribd.vdownloaders.com_udc-universal-decimal-classification.pdf](https://jdih.kpu.go.id/data-kabko/singkawang/data_monografi/scribd.vdownloaders.com_udc-universal-decimal-classification.pdf) 16. [https://www.loc.gov/marc/classification/udc.html](https://www.loc.gov/marc/classification/udc.html) 17. [https://universaldependencies.org/u/overview/complex-syntax.html](https://universaldependencies.org/u/overview/complex-syntax.html) 18. [https://article.imrpress.com/journal/KO/37/4/10.5771/0943-7444-2010-4-270/a012359d538da30416cbc5ef586ad8a7.pdf](https://article.imrpress.com/journal/KO/37/4/10.5771/0943-7444-2010-4-270/a012359d538da30416cbc5ef586ad8a7.pdf) 19. [https://sigir.org/files/museum/ASLIB%20CRANFIELD%20RESEARCH%20PROJECT-1960/pdfs/p30-chapter_4.pdf](https://sigir.org/files/museum/ASLIB%20CRANFIELD%20RESEARCH%20PROJECT-1960/pdfs/p30-chapter_4.pdf) 20. [https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=factsheet](https://udcc.org/index.php/site/page?view=factsheet)