In Alex's case, he just had a neatfreak, overly organized dad who taught him to be sort of the same way, albeit with less enthusiasm. He's not the greatest at taking notes. He's trying, though, as best he can, and it's better than nothing.

"I've been here for... about a day, I think? Something like that. I have a hard time keeping track of time without enough sleep, and a hard time sleeping without my medicine from back home." Which should be totally reassuring to Conan, truly. "But everybody here is really nice when you talk to them. One helped me get aspirin, and another treated me to dinner. Everybody looks out for each other. If you just keep asking questions, they'll have answers."