Mind mapping is a visualization technique that allows for radial, non-linear thinking inspired by how the brain naturally makes connections. It involves creating a central concept or word and radiating associated ideas, words and concepts outward in branches. There are no strict rules, but effective mind maps use text, images, color and doodling to visually outline information without editing as ideas emerge. Mind maps can facilitate more creative brainstorming compared to traditional outlines by allowing for multiple connections between topics. Students are assigned to create three hand-drawn mind maps related to their senior project and upload high-quality images of the maps to the class wiki by a deadline.

1. Mind-Mapping
Visual brain storming for creative clarity

2. What the heck is mind-mapping?
 Mind-mapping is a technique based upon the principle
that free flowing radial thinking falls in line with the way
our brains naturally follow thought and make
connections
 “A mind map is a diagram used to visually outline
information. A mind map is often created around a
single word or text, placed in the center, to which
associated ideas, words and concepts are added. Major
categories radiate from a central node, and lesser
categories are sub-branches of larger branches.[1]
Categories can represent words, ideas, tasks, or other
items related to a central key word or idea.” 1
1. Mind Map wikipedia entry, retrieved from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind_map,
January 26, 2014

3. The next slide shows an example
of a mind-map I made for one of
my creative projects- the
Dioramapod series.

5. Traditional Outline vs. Mind-map
Outline
Mindmap-detail
 Dioramampod
 Outside
 Ceramic
 Pods
 paperclay
 Eggs
 paperclay
 Boxes
 paperclay
 Other Materials

6. Ways mind-mapping may allow
for more creative brainstorming
Traditional Outline
Mind Map
Linear
Non-linear/ radial
Text
Contains text and images
Difficult to make
connections between
separate headings and
topics
Allows for connections
between multiple topics and
headings

7. So what are the rules for mindmapping?

8. There are no rules! (but here are
some suggestions)
 Start with a central theme, this can be as general as
Senior Project or as detailed as an ending for my film
 Now, without pausing too long, write down several finer
categories radially branching from your center:Film,
Performance, Game or surprising, happy, tragic
 Continue refining by radiating outwards as ideas come to
you. Don’t edit. Some of the spurs or branches may
continue for several “generations” while others might
remain branchless
 Doodling; you’re doodling ideas using text and imagery
while not thinking about it too hard
 Color can be fun; Play with letting the imagery become
the main force behind your decisions

9. Mind-mapping Examples

10. How to Mind Map, unkown, retrieved from
http://iqmatrix.com/academic-genius/
January 26, 2014

11. Hand Drawn Shakespeare, unknown author, retrieved from
http://www.mind-mapping.co.uk/mind-maps-examples.htm
January 26, 2014

12. De-clutter Mind Map, Paul Foreman, 2008, retrieved from
http://www.mindmapinspiration.com/de-clutter-mind-map-paul-foreman/
January 26, 2014

13. Summer Mind Map, 2013, Trixy Sweetvittles

14. ITWV Mind Map, 2010, Trixy Sweetvittles

15. Homework due 02/06
 Create three mind maps that relate to your senior
project
 The maps can be broad and general or fine and detailed
or both
 Create the maps by hand-paper, pens, markers, pencils,
paint
 Scan or digitally photograph your maps and upload to
your class Wiki by 2pm 02/06. Please capture a high
quality image so we can see it well. The down-shooters
in SCB 204 should work well for this.