Mind mapping is one of the best ways to capture your views and bring them to life in image form. Mind maps can help you become more creative, efficient, and sincere. Whether you're new to mind maps or just want a refresher, here's all you need to know about this technique.
A mind map is basically a figure that connects information based on a central subject. I like to think it as a tree which has branches, twigs, and every part is connected with each other. In Mind maps, your main idea will be placed at the center and other information related to this idea will be positioned at other branches in detail related to the center.
Mind maps can be used for thinking or learning task, from studying a subject to planning your career or even building better habits. There are some ways to use mind maps such as: goal setting, brainstorming about the topic, creating knowledge bank, identifying problems, finding way to solve problems, create book summaries etc.
Mind maps are better than taking text notes. Mind maps can be more effective than linear note – taking methods for a number of reasons.
Firstly, a mind map can incorporate words, images, numbers, and colors. So it can be more memorable and enjoyable to create and follow than other note – taking. The combination of words and images is better for recalling than a single word.
Secondly, a mind map helps to generate more ideas, find deeper meaning of topic, and also let you to add more what you have missed.
Thirdly, a mind map can give you a general idea of a bulky topic which holds a large quantity of information.
Fourthly, a mind map helps you to organize your thoughts rather than thinking linearly.
Fifthly, with the help of mind map you can generate ideas very quickly and are encouraged to explore different creative lanes.
You can create a mind map on paper because you can get your thoughts out more quickly and the act of drawing the branches out can assist remember. On the other hand, you can use the computer which can make your mind maps searchable and include attachments.
Once you've chosen your tool, follow these seven steps and tips for making a mind map, from British author Tony Buzan, who trademarked and popularized the term "mind map" in the 1960s:
1. Start in the center of a blank page turned sideways. Because starting in the centre gives your Brain freedom to spread out in all directions and to express itself more freely and naturally.
2. Use an image for your central idea. Because an image is worth a thousand words and helps you use your Imagination. A central image is more interesting, keeps you focused, helps you concentrate, and gives your Brain more of a buzz!
3. Use colors throughout. Because colors are as exciting to your Brain as are images. Color adds extra vibrancy and life to your Mind Map, adds tremendous energy to your Creative Thinking.
4. Connect your main branches to the central image and connect your second- and third-level branches to the first and second levels, etc. Because your Brain works by association. If you connect the branches, you will understand and remember a lot more easily.
5. Make your branches curved rather than straight-lined. Because having nothing but straight lines are boring to your Brain.
6. Use one key word per line. Because single key words give your Mind Map more power and flexibility.
7. Use images throughout. Because each image, like the central image, is also worth a thousand words. So if you have only 10 images in your Mind Map, it’s already the equal of 10,000 words of notes!
Actually, there is not any standard way to create a mind map. It depends on your creativity, thinking, will. Keep one thing on your mind that you should try to do something which is effective for you.
