Mind Mapping, popularized by Tony Buzan is a powerful technique that improves note taking and enhances creative problem solving. It differs from conventional note taking which uses the list format in that it is two dimensional and compact. Mind Mapping also uses key words and key images to give a more collective presentation of a subject.
Mind Maps emulates the way the human brain works in making associations and this in turn aids in seeing the whole “picture” rather then seeing one part at a time.
Mind Maps are useful for:
- Recall. Since mind maps copies the way the brain works which is not linear but naturally associative it helps you to remember more easily. Mind Maps are also more visual and recalling images is easier then recalling words.
- Creativity. Mind Maps reflects the way the brain organizes information or thoughts. Any single idea is linked to thousands of others. As information is presented in more coherent way, the brain will find it easier to connect the links and this aids in creativity.
- Planning and Presentation. The visual nature of mind maps can assist you in writing a book, building a website and/or to give public talks or seminars.
How To Mind Map.
Peter Russell who joined Tony Buzan in the 1970s teaching mind mapping skills to various organizations gives the following tips on how to mind map.
* Use just key words, or wherever possible images.
* Start from the center of the page and work out.
* Make the center a clear and strong visual image that depicts the general theme of the map.
* Create sub-centers for sub-themes.
* Put key words on lines. This reinforces structure of notes.
* Print rather than write in script. It makes them more readable and memorable. Lower case is more visually distinctive (and better remembered) than upper case.
* Use color to depict themes, associations and to make things stand out.
* Anything that stands out on the page will stand out in your mind.
* Think three-dimensionally. Use arrows, icons or other visual aids to show links between different elements.
* Don't get stuck in one area. If you dry up in one area go to another branch.
* Put ideas down as they occur, wherever they fit. Don't judge or hold back.
* Break boundaries. If you run out of space, don't start a new sheet; paste more paper onto the map. (Break the 8x11 mentality.)
* Be creative. Creativity aids memory.
* Get involved. Have fun.
If you interested you can visit the links below which offers information free mind mapping tools.
- Free Mind – Free Software
- Mind-Mapping.org – Mind Mapping Resources
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