Mind mapping is a diagram used to visually organize information around a central concept or idea, with branches representing related thoughts or topics. It was first developed by Tony Buzan in 1974 to simplify organization and understanding by reducing complexity and finding new connections. Mind mapping software allows for storing more information in expandable topic trees, embedding files and links, and easier collaboration compared to paper mind maps. Popular free and commercial mind mapping software options exist.

1. Mind mapping

2. Mind Mapping
 A mind map is a diagram used to represent
words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and
arranged around a central key word or idea.
 a central idea or image surrounded by branches of
associated topics or ideas.
 visual representation of hierarchical information
 branches as ideas flow freely
 Concept/idea with branches of associated thoughts
 First coined by Tony Buzan in 1974
 Initially done on paper

3. Advantage- Organization
 Simplified overview
 Reduce complexity
 understand relationships
 find new connections
 Student taking notes
 During studying
 During lecture
 Brainstorming
 Generate more ideas
 Make new connections
 Retention of ideas
 And more …
 Thinking
 Complexity
 Changing ways of working
 Volumes of information
 Change
 Planning
 Creativity and
Innovation
 Learn once, use
everywhere

4. Advantage of using a Software
 Arrange topics in expandable and collapsible
topic trees
 Store much more information
 Avoid visual clutter
 Sub-divide large maps into linked sub-maps
 Embed documents, links, notes and other data
within a topic
 Export your ideas directly to other software like
 Microsoft Word Headings
 Project Management Software
 Present directly instead of using a mindmap

5. Advantage of using a Software …
 Re-arrange the topics in your map at will, until it
perfectly represents your ideas
 Store and update Mindmap contents as needed
 Easier collaboration- email maps
 Group decision making and fast reporting
 Brainstorming events
 For a keyword, keep notes and hide them as
needed

6. Software
 There are many commercial and free (open
source) software available
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_concept-
_and_mind-mapping_software
 A good start for students
 Free version of xmind
 http://www.xmind.net/