A mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information. It is hierarchical and shows relationships among pieces of the whole. Key ideas or concepts are arranged radially around a central concept, and related concepts are connected with branches. Mind maps are useful for brainstorming, visual thinking, and problem-solving. They allow the user to associate words and concepts in a way that represents semantic or other connections. Mind maps can be drawn by hand, either as rough notes during a lecture or meeting or as a detailed graphic organizing information on a topic.