How to Use Microsoft Word to Create a Simple Mind Map

Think out of the box with mind mapping

Mind mapping is a creative way that many creative people use to unblock a block in their creative flow. In writers, this is called "writer's block." You can use a program that's probably on your computer to create a simple visual tool that will help get the juices flowing again.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• MS Word

Instructions

1. 

   On your laptop or desktop computer, open up your Microsoft Word for Windows word processing application.

2. On the toolbar, click on the "Insert" tab.

3. 

   From the "Insert" tab's drop down menu, select the "Diagram" option.

4. 

   A small square tool window will pop up, indicating the various diagrams you can use. From this, select the one that looks like a snow flake. (A small circle, with spokes radiating out, with circles on the ends of the spokes.)

5. Once you've selected the correct diagram to insert into your document, click "Okay."

6. 

   You will now have a circle in the center, with three other circles radiating out. This is the beginnings of your mind map.

7. To add other circles (ideas) to your Microsoft Word mind map, select "Insert Shape" from the floating tool bar.

8. 

   Click on each circle to add text, links, images, or whatever you need to add to your mind map to get your creative motor running.