Mind mapping is an absolutely fascinating and rich topic. A mind map is a tool for the brain that captures the thinking that goes on inside your head. Mind mapping helps you think, collect knowledge, remember and create ideas. Most likely it will make you a better thinker. So, they are basically graphical representations of information. In contrast to the traditional, linear notes you might make in a text document or even on paper, mind maps let you capture thoughts, ideas and keywords on a blank canvas. These ideas are organized in a two-dimensional structure, with the title/main idea always located in the center of the map for visibility. Related ideas branch off from the center in all directions, creating a radiant structure.

When it comes to creating your mind map, the most important things to consider are what you need and how you learn best. Sometimes, you may not even need a mind map at all. While almost all mapping techniques were developed as an alternative to long-form text and linear notes, there are plenty of situations where linear note-taking is a perfectly suitable method. Your needs and goals should also be considered when you decide how to create the mind map itself. While traditional paper mind maps are great for developing ideas by yourself, the development of online mind mapping tools has enabled millions of people to brainstorm and plan together in real time.

How to Draw a Mind Map

Drawing a mind map is as simple as 1-2-3:

Start in the middle of a blank page, writing or drawing the idea you intend to develop. I would suggest that you use the page in landscape orientation.
Develop the related subtopics around this central topic, connecting each of them to the center with a line.
Repeat the same process for the subtopics, generating lower-level subtopics as you see fit, connecting each of those to the corresponding subtopic.

Some more recommendations:

Use colors, drawings and symbols copiously. Be as visual as you can, and your brain will thank you. I’ve met many people who don’t even try, with the excuse they’re "not artists". Don’t let that keep you from trying it out!.
Keep the topics labels as short as possible, keeping them to a single word – or, better yet, to only a picture. Especially in your first mind maps, the temptation to write a complete phrase is enormous, but always look for opportunities to shorten it to a single word or figure – your mind map will be much more effective that way.
Vary text size, color and alignment. Vary the thickness and length of the lines. Provide as many visual cues as you can to emphasize important points. Every little bit helps engage your brain.

Benefits when Creating Mind Maps with Software

It is faster to brainstorm and enter information.
Re-arranging branches and formatting is much easier.
You do not run out of “space”, as you tend to do with larger mind maps on paper.
You can take unlimited notes and attach files.
Some commercial mind mapping software tools enable you to export your mind map to Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Project etc. without re-entering information.

Using Mind Maps Effectively

Once you understand how to take notes in the Mind Map format, you can develop your own conventions for taking them further. The following suggestions can help you to get the most from your Mind Maps:

Use Single Words or Uncomplicated Phrases – Keep things simple. In Mind Maps, single strong words and short, meaningful phrases can convey the same meaning more potently. Excess words just clutter a Mind Map.

Print Words – They will be easier to read than joined-up or indistinct writing.

Use Color to Separate Different Ideas – Color can help to show the organization of the subject. It can also make your Mind Map a more appealing document, and help you to visualize the different sections of your Mind Map for future recall.

Use Symbols and Images – Pictures can help you to remember information more effectively than words, so use symbols or pictures that mean something to you, use it.

Using Cross-Linkages – Information in one part of a Mind Map may relate to another part, so draw lines to show these cross-linkages. This will help you to see how one part of the subject affects another.

Why To Use Mind Maps

Mind maps are a powerful tool to organize and visualize information, memorize or recall something, boost creativity, and increase productivity. Mind maps can be used in business, education, and for all kinds of personal purposes.

In marketing, you can use mind maps to prepare research, create a customer profile, build an email or a chatbot flow, or work on a marketing strategy on the whole.

To create an effective mind map, use images, colors, curved lines instead of straight ones, keywords instead of whole sentences, and do not overload your mind map with associations.

You can draw a mind map by hand, but it’s better to use specially designated mind mapping tools: they provide you with abilities for collaboration, presenting, and sharing the information.

Brainstorm, solve problems, find new ways for development, and organize your marketing plans.