Learn the lingo. The Dewey Decimal system organizes books into 10 main classes by category, which together covers the entire range of knowledge. The system utilizes a series of symbols called "notations" to represent the classifications. Each of the 10 main classes is divided into 10 "divisions" and each division into 10 "sections," though not all numbers in the divisions and sections are used by each classification. A book's Dewey Decimal number is termed its "call number."
Understand the numbers. The notations in the system are used to represent each specific breakdown in classification. For example, 533 represents the topic gas mechanics. The first number, 5, represents the main class, science. The next number, 3, indicates the division, physics. The last number, 3, the section in physics, gas mechanics. The Dewey Decimal System demands that no item should have fewer than three numbers. Zeros are used when only referring to a category as in 500 for science. For further division a decimal is placed after the third digit and the breakdown continues in tens.
Find a book in the library by determining the main (first number) category you are seeking. You can find a list of the ten main categories at the library on online.
Go to the aisle or aisles in the library that contain the number you are looking for. Most library aisles are labeled on the end with the range of Dewey Decimal categories featured in that section. Find the aisle with the first digit number you are seeking.
Browse the main category isles until you find the precise section you are seeking. If you are looking for a specific book, utilize the library's computer or call system to find the exact Dewey Decimal number for that book.