A MindMap is a visual note-taking technique that represents ideas, words or concepts arranged radially around a central concept. It uses images, colors and words to depict associations between related ideas and allows for creative thinking. MindMaps follow basic guidelines - starting with a central image and branching out lines of different thickness connected to key words or ideas. They work with the brain's natural way of forming associations and are an effective learning and problem-solving tool.

1. MindMaps

2. What is a MindMap? A MindMap is a visual form of note-making that can be done either individually or as part of a group. At its heart is a central image or idea. A Mind Map is a powerful graphic technique which provides a universal key to unlock the potential of the brain

3. What is a MindMap? The Mind Map can be applied to every aspect of life where improved learning and clearer thinking will enhance your productivity It harnesses the full range of cortical skills – word, image, number, logic, rhythm, colour and spatial awareness – in a single, uniquely powerful manner. In so doing, it gives you the freedom to capture the infinite power and creativity of your brain.

5. Creating a MindMap The subject of attention is crystallised in a central image The main themes of the subject radiate from the central image on branches Branches hold a key image / word printed on the associated line - details radiate out The branches form a connected nodal structure.

7. MindMap Guidelines A Mind Map is open to free interpretation by each individual.

8. MindMap Guidelines Start in the centre with an image of the topic, using at least three colours.

9. MindMap Guidelines Use images, symbols, codes and dimensions throughout the Mind Map.

10. MindMap Guidelines Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.

11. MindMap Guidelines Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.

12. MindMap Guidelines The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the centre.

14. MindMap Guidelines Make the lines the same length as the word/image.

15. MindMap Guidelines Use colours – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.

16. MindMap Guidelines Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.

17. MindMap Guidelines Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.

18. MindMap Guidelines Keep the Mind Map clear by using Radiant hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.

20. Benefits of MindMaps Just as the branches are all connected, so all the ideas are all related to each other, this gives MindMaps an additional depth that a simple list can never achieve. By working from the centre outwards, a MindMap encourages learner’s thoughts to grow outwards. Soon the learner’s ideas will expand and radiate creative thinking.

21. Benefits of MindMaps MindMaps are an effective thinking tool because they work with the brain and encourage it to develop associations between ideas: each branch of the MindMap is associated with the previous branch. This is a visual map which complements how the brain works and can lead to significant results.

23. Uses of MindMaps Planning Brainstorming Group thinking Documenting Note taking Resources

24. MindMaps in Computing Requirements gathering Fusebox Architecting Development brainstorming Testing and debugging Project management