Define Mind Map

A mind map is a type of organizing tool that allows a person to brainstorm ideas based on a word, phrase, idea, place or other basis.

Beginning your Mind Map

To begin making a mind map, place your central idea on a piece of paper. It could be a service, a brand, a budget or anything you need.

Branching Out

From your central idea, think of related ideas, and draw out lines, or branches, that represent each idea. Now you have several new ideas based on the original one.

Additional Branches

Take the ideas you created in Step 2 and find additional ideas that fall under those. You can essentially continue this method ad infinitum, until you have all the ideas you need.

Other Uses

Mind mapping can also be used for note taking, meeting planning, speech organizing and many other situations beyond brainstorming.

Tools to Help

Computer-inclined users can also use mind mapping software to help design their own maps. Freemind, Pimki and Compendium are several free programs to help create effective mind maps.

References

• Mind Map

Resources

• Mind Mapping Software