The open field system of farming was commonly used in 18th century British villages. Each village was divided into three or four fields that villagers would farm together, with each person owning thin strips of land across the different fields. One field would be left fallow each year to restore nutrients to the soil. Housing and tools were basic, with many living in small cottages and using manual tools. Common land was available for grazing livestock and collecting wood and was important for community and support. However, the system had disadvantages like wasted land and difficulties trying new farming techniques.