Simple and easy ways to create mind maps

Mind map is one of the ways to help you create, remember and plan for all effective ideas and projects. The following article will guide you on how to create mind mapping easily.

Planning to build a mind map

Step 1: Think of a plane flying into the sky

When you visualize or see an airplane in the sky, it will be the center of attention in you then. However, at this time, your brain does not stop there. It immediately began to reference, incorporating many different factors for that aircraft. They can be sky colors, different types of aircraft, how they fly, pilots, passengers, airports ... Why is that? Because we think in pictures, not words. These combined thoughts are often presented as images.

• Your mind immediately maps, creating links between these combinations or concepts.

Step 2: Now draw a spider or a multi-branched tree

For a conceptual concept map, write the PLANE on the center (the trunk of a spider or the trunk) of a blank sheet of paper. Then radiating from this word were branches of different colors (branches or spider legs). You will write combinations related to the aircraft in these branches, for example AIRPORT, AIRPORT. Each branch can have other small combinations. You only need to write the content on each line. For example: Pilots are wages or training, training ... Mind mapping will develop like that.

• The mind map reflects the way the brain processes and remembers information - flexible and intuitive, not in a linear way as people often think. For example, the mind map has proven to be an extremely effective means of taking notes, instead of recording every word the teacher says, you write the name of the lecture topic in the center of the paper. The sub-topic is the date and other information to discuss. You draw and label according to the ideas.
• Mind maps are also used instead of sketches of academic content to prepare for essays, research papers, exam review ...

Step 3: Use the brain its way

The world leading expert in thinking method, Tony Buzan calls this method of radiant thinking. When the brain focuses on something - ideas, sounds, images, emotions ... - it becomes the center of thought. The brain will radiate it with a multitude of different ideas, images, emotions and more.

• Mind map helps users link back and forth and analyze many different pieces of information and concepts. The more the brain makes information links, the longer we remember it.

Step 4: Create, record, use and communicate information

These combinations allow you to implement each idea quickly, effectively and naturally. Use words, pictures, lines, colors, symbols, numbers, etc. to identify and link concepts. Research shows that writing and visualizing both improve memory, promote creativity and process information. Color is also an excellent memory enhancer. Combining them, you will create impressive mind maps.

• Mind maps are tools for creating everything and providing effective problem-solving methods. You need to brainstorm when doing this. For example, you can create mind maps for things like weddings, new recipes, advertising campaigns, boss paychecks, etc. Write down everything you know about the topic. On the other hand, the word map also helps solve problems such as better financial management, health diagnosis, personal conflicts ...
• They are also tools to directly record information related to the subject you are "overloaded" with data. For example, they help you determine what you really need to take notes, record the main content of the meeting, the content should be in the autobiography or resume ...
• Mind maps help you easily use information effectively and remember everything better, such as book content, discussions with others, schedules, etc. You can also use them to analyze topics. complex topics such as trading stocks, computer networks, engine mechanisms ... Especially, mind maps are extremely useful when planning to perform tasks such as convalescence, time management, Important work projects.
• Mind maps are also powerful communication tools. You can create diagrams for presentations, group projects, live chat, writing documents ...

Step 5: Design a mind map by hand or computer software

Manual mapping is a manual method that has been used for decades and is still effective today. But, they will be even better when you use professional mind mapping software. These software are increasingly used widely in the enterprise from meeting minutes to project management.

• Encourage creation of beautiful mind maps with personal style.
• Don't be too rigid when building a mind map. Use both left and right brain flexibly.
• The mind map should rely on both brain hemispheres to create the network of ideas - the right brain for images, colors, dimensions, imagination, "big" thoughts and the left brain for words, logic, analysis, numbers and sequential thinking.
• You can create mind maps on your computer.

Instructions to create mind maps manually

1. Define topic structure

Mind maps should always have a clear topic structure. You do this by proving the importance of the link between ideas as well as how they affect each other. You can keep an eye on it and remember that information later. However, first, you must develop ideas & connect them to the central theme.

• "Speaking books, certified tips" are a good way to understand the mind map. It is a big picture with detailed information inside.

2. Thinking about the topic

You should think about the topic before you start drawing, especially if you don't want to be "overwhelmed" with information. You can do this task yourself or in a group discussion. Write down everything you can think of related topics. Use keywords or phrases as opposed to sentences or paragraphs.

• Do not arrange information at this time. Just writing them down is enough.
• When brainstorming, ask yourself what you know about the subject and what is the difference.

3. Don't rush to draw the diagram first

Many people like to draw when they have an idea. But don't be in such a hurry. First, write the subject in the center of the paper. Make sure you put the paper in landscape and middle mode, write the subject name in 1 to 2 words, and draw the circle that circles it. You should write the topic name in lowercase or uppercase to reduce distractions and read it quickly. Also, you can color words and circles.

• Try to have at least 3 colors on the map. They help you separate ideas and remember better.
• Do not use lined paper. It can make you think in a linear fashion.

4. Draw and label the first idea branches

Draw a simple line for each subcategory extending from the circled topic names and label them with a word, short phrase or picture for them. Do not use abbreviations. Please write the full name, for example: AIRPORTS, PILOTS. The whole line or branch needs to be connected in the mind map. The seam connecting the first branches radiating from the main theme should be the thickest.

• Each word or picture used in the mind map must be on a separate line.
• Use photos and drawings whenever possible. For example, you can draw a minus sign next to the "negative" sub-category branch or the bright yellow plus sign next to the "positive" category branch.
• Using the arrow keys, other symbols, distances ... to connect images and create a rich network of images is considered the core nature of the mind map.

5. Move to the next branch

These branches are thinner than the first. Think of things related to the subcategory first. Assess any important issues or facts related to them? For example, with the airport concept, what would you combine with it? Flight delay? Security? Expensive food?

• You should draw a line recording the name of the idea for the sub branch.
• Use colors and photos again.

6. Continue developing the idea branch

Keep developing the idea by breaking down the main sub-branches in a concept until you see that your mind map is complete. Italian roads will get thinner and thinner. You can even add the first branch of ideas when you suddenly think of content that was accidentally forgotten.

You should decentralize subcategories for easy reference. For example, if the subcategories are "flight delays", "security", "expensive food", you should draw 3 lines or branches for each idea. Then, put what you think is the most important subcategory up above or the first line.

7. Add or modify to complete the mind map

You can continue to add ideas, correct or develop new links in the mind map. If you want, you can create a complete version, then check for consistency and errors in thinking to map more closely and tidy.

Use software and applications to draw a mind map

1. Advantages

Software and applications for creating mind maps are increasingly expanding features to meet the needs of users. Some of them even contain premium features that are completely free. These apps allow users to collaborate online in real time, brainstorm and discuss, edit other people's diagrams, whiteboards, draw freely in meetings or presentations, and serve their individual needs on the phone. , complex project management from grassroots level, planning ...

• Software for drawing diagrams of multi-purpose, from basic to advanced.
• There are some free "top" programs available. Other apps cost from $ 4.99 / month depending on the feature.
• Easy to edit, update and scientific layout. You can often upload your own images.
• You can download mind maps as PDF.

2. Cons

Functional differences between software / apps can sometimes limit the nature of the mind map. For example, a program may allow you to insert an arrow of a sub-folder link, while other software does not provide this feature. Creating image links is quite important in the mind map.

• Most apps / software do not allow you to draw with any tool other than the mouse.
• They are often expensive and users must spend time getting used to them. Hand-drawn to increase awareness and easier to remember.

3. Try the software & read user reviews

Don't be afraid to try out mind maps when possible because this is an opportunity to help you understand their basic function. It also helps users to make an informed choice about whether or not to upgrade the program. Also, read online reviews to see if the software has received positive or negative feedback. A software / app can be a great team collaboration option, but tracking project progress is inefficient. So, consider carefully.

• Some free mind mapping software you can try include Coggle , MindMapple, NovaMind .

Above are ways to draw basic thinking diagrams by both traditional and modern methods. Hope the article is helpful to you.