Mind Mapping

Mind Maps

A mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea. It is used to generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, organization, problem solving, decision making, and writing.

It is an image-centered diagram that represents semantic or other connections between portions of information. By presenting these connections in a radial, non-linear graphical manner, it encourages a brainstorming approach to any given organizational task, eliminating the hurdle of initially establishing an intrinsically appropriate or relevant conceptual framework to work within.

A mind map is similar to a semantic network or cognitive map but there are no formal restrictions on the kinds of links used.

The elements are arranged intuitively according to the importance of the concepts and they are organized into groupings, branches, or areas. The uniform graphic formulation of the semantic structure of information on the method of gathering knowledge, may aid recall of existing memories.

Applications

Mind maps have many applications in personal, family, educational, and business situations, including notetaking, brainstorming (wherein ideas are inserted into the map radially around the center node, without the implicit prioritization that comes from hierarchy or sequential arrangements, and wherein grouping and organizing is reserved for later stages), summarizing, revising and general clarifying of thoughts. For example, one could listen to a lecture and take down notes using mind maps for the most important points or keywords. One can also use mind maps as a mnemonic technique or to sort out a complicated idea. Mind maps are also promoted as a way to collaborate in colour pen creativity sessions.

Mindmaps can be drawn by hand, either as 'rough notes', for example, during a lecture or meeting, or can be more sophisticated in quality. Examples of both are illustrated. There are also a number of software packages available for producing mind maps (see below).

The best-selling fiction paperback (August 2007) in the UK , "The Naming of the Dead" by Ian Rankin, features a detective, Inspector Rebus who uses mind maps to solve crimes.

To see many examples of mind maps, just type mind map into Google and search the 'Images' rather that the 'websites'

I really liked the mindmaps produced by Shev Gul on his site mindbodyresources.com.

Check them out

How to Draw a Mind Map

Tony Buzan suggests using the following foundation structures for Mind Mapping:

1. Start in the center with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors.


2. Use images, symbols, codes, and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.


3. Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.


4. Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.


5. The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the centre.


6. Make the lines the same length as the word/image.


7. Use colors – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.


8. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.


9. Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.


10. Keep the Mind Map clear by using radial hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.

An idea map is similar to a mind map but does not adhere to the above guidelines. Rules are constantly broken based on the purpose and application of the Map.

Tony Buzan has recently released IMindMap, a software package for developing mind maps. This is the best software tool that I have come across. It is very intuitative and easy to use. I would recommend it very much. Check it out at http://www.imindmap.com/