The GLP Working Group on «Archetype Analysis in Land Governance and Sustainability Research» convened its second workshop at the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin from 28 February through 2 March 2018. Co-organized by HU Berlin, the University of Bern and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, the workshop brought together 32 well-established and emerging scholars from land system science, institutional analysis and global change research. The meeting made an important next step in consolidating the precise meaning and methodological portfolio of archetype analysis. Discussions were held on current methodological challenges and best practices in archetype analysis. Fourteen participants presented their applications of archetype analysis to better understand current sustainability issues related to land use, climate change, biodiversity, water, vulnerability and sustainability strategies. In-depth discussions of those applications were held to ensure high-quality of submissions to the upcoming special issue on Archetype Analysis in “Ecology and Society”. The workshop further strengthened the network of researchers working with the archetype approach leading to specific plans for follow-up activities including the third workshop 2019, panels at conferences and joint research activities. More information on the Working Group at: https://glp.earth/how-we-work/