This is a "How to ..." for mind maps with separate 10 steps. The steps are extensively described and the reasons for each steps are explained in detail.
This is a "How to ..." for mind maps with separate 10 steps. The steps are extensively described and the reasons for each steps are explained in detail.
This is a "How to ..." for mind maps with separate 10 steps. The steps are extensively described and the reasons for each steps are explained in detail.
your thoughts. Plain paper enables you to be as creative and spontaneous as possible
2. Turn the paper landscape i. e., the long
side of the paper at the top
It is easier to look at the Mind Map when it is
in this position and you can fit more onto the page.
3. Start by drawing a coloured image in the
centre of the paper. This central image represents the topic of the Mind Map. The image should be 3-5 cm high and the same width. Use at least 3 colours in the image Do not put a frame around it. Allow it to have its own unique and natural shape
A picture is worth a 1000 words! It stimulates
the brain to think up associations, it focuses the thoughts and it results in better recall of the Mind Map at a later date.
Allows plenty of space for the rest of
the map
Colour stimulates right-brain
creativity and captures attention
A frame makes the centre a
monotony shape and a free image is more memorable
4. Draw the main themes of the Mind Map on
thick branches radiating out from the central image. These are like the chapter headings of a book PRINT the word Place the word on a line of the same length Make the central lines think, curved and organic (like the branch of a tree attached to the trunk) Connected directly to the central image
It is easier to look at the Mind Map when it is
in this position and you can fit more onto the page
Printing allows the brain to
photograph the word and remember it easily. For reading-back purposes, a printed word is clearer, more legible and easier to remember than ordinary handwriting
Too much line after the word
disconnects the thoughts
Curved lines give visual rhythm and
so are easier to remember. Thick central lines show importance
The brain works by association so
by connecting the main branch to the central image, the brain links the two together
5. Add other main theme branches around
the map
So all your main 'chapter headings' are
included and so that the main themes stand out clearly
6. Start to add a second level of thought.
These words and/or images are linked to the main branch that triggered them. Remember:
Connecting lines are now thinner
Words may be in lower case
The main branch words and images stimulate
other thoughts and associations. Allow the random flow of your thoughts as you add other levels of thought
Connecting lines gives the map a
recognisable shape and structure. They also demonstrate the level of importance, as from a branch to a twig
The size and style of the words
provide additional data about their importance and meaning
7. Add a third or fourth level of thought as
those thoughts come to you
To capture all ideas and thoughts that pop
into your head
8. Use images throughout your Mind Map.
Add an image to all the main branches to represent each key theme and also use images to visualise every important key word on your map. You can use: pictures line drawings patterns shapes symbols stick figures etc.
Images activate the right-brain, attract the
eye and stimulate your memory. If you find it hard to draw an image at first, try making your words more expressive: make them 3D, use bubble writing, colour in the letters, use patterns in the letters, make the letters into images etc.
9. Add dimension to your Mind Map by
adding boxes and adding depth around the words and images