Mcom 320: Organizing Your Information

Overview

Chunking and Sequencing

In The Book of Mormon, King Benjamin's speech (Mosiah 2 - 5) illustrates the importance of chunking and sequencing information. King Benjamin's structured address helps the audience understand and remember key points. Using chunking and sequencing, King Benjamin simplified complex doctrine into smaller, more digestible parts. The logical sequence starts with the basic principles of faith and obedience, moves to the Atonement and the need for repentance, and concludes with the covenant of taking on the name of Christ.

The lengthy discourse is organized to build on previous points, making it easier for the audience (and readers) to follow and retain the information. The chunked and sequenced information ensured King Benjamin's people could grasp the teachings and easily apply them in their lives—the ultimate goal of Christlike communication.

SMART Outlines

The SMART outline—story (opening hook), main idea (thesis), agenda (preview), reasons (body of information), and task (conclusion)—is an example of chunked, sequenced information.

Below is a sample outline of King Benjamin's speech:

I. STORY/Hook

You are nervous about the expectations for your future: you are faced with deciding on a major, a career, a spouse, where to live, and whether you will follow the faith you now live. In this sea of uncertainty, you turn to your social media to take cues about what your peers are doing. Notifications buzz with the latest trends and crises, but you see a pause button—a live stream that promises not just another set of life hacks, but a blueprint for a meaningful life, a chance to align your personal mission with something greater than the next viral post.

Transition

As you cope with the uncertainties in your life like deciding on a major or a career, you probably look for guidance that stands the test of time. Just as the live stream offers a blueprint for a meaningful life, King Benjamin’s enduring wisdom provides a foundation that outlasts the fleeting trends of social media influencers.

II. MAIN IDEA

Instead of following the latest social media influencers who vie for likes and screen time, seek the enduring wisdom of King Benjamin, whose timeless counsel transcends fleeting trends and offers a foundation for a life of genuine purpose and service.

Transition

Moving beyond the superficial allure of likes and screen time, search King Benjamin’s counsel. If you were watching King Benjamin on live stream, you would see that his teachings offer not just a momentary pause from the digital noise but a comprehensive guide for a life of service, leadership, and wisdom.

III. AGENDA

• The power of service
• The role of a leader
• The pursuit of wisdom

IV. REASONS

• The power of service
  
  • King Benjamin teaches that true greatness comes not from being served but from serving others and engaging in selfless acts, leading to person fulfillment and societal improvement (Mosiah 2:17 – 18).

• The role of a leader

  • King Benjamin demonstrates that effective leadership involves serving with humility, not seeking power of recognition, setting an example that inspires others to lead with integrity (Mosiah 2:10 – 16).

• The pursuit of wisdom

  • King Benjamin emphasizes the importance of gaining wisdom and knowledge, which are more precious than material riches and provide lasting benefits (Mosiah 2:17).

Transition

Understanding the reasons behind King Benjamin’s teachings should prompt you to look inward and question your values. Instead of simply admiring or "liking" these principles; actively embrace them. As you reflect on the power of service, the role of a leader, and the pursuit of wisdom, you should feel called to action, to align your choices with these enduring values as you plan your future.

V. TASK/Call to action/Forward-looking note

Look beyond the digital applause and seek doctrinal wisdom. Embrace the principles of service, humility in leadership, and the pursuit of knowledge, as taught by King Benjamin, to build a successful, meaningful, impactful life and career.

Reflect on King Benjamin's teachings and consider how they can be applied in your personal and professional life. Commit to making choices that align with these enduring values and take steps to implement them as you plan your future.

Regardless of whether you are organizing documents, emails, or presentations, constantly seek to follow the Lord's counsel to Joseph Smith:

"Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God." (D&C 88:119)
Every needful thing indicates purging unnecessary items. As you chunk, sequence, and outline your information, you will easily identify the items your audience needs to make informed, logical decisions. Transform your organizational skills to become a Christlike communicator.

To ensure this lesson’s principles are firmly rooted in practical application, you will learn more about how the strategies of chunking and sequencing can directly enhance your business communication as you structure presentations, reports, emails, and meetings.

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