Mind maps:
A mind map is a diagram used to
represent words, ideas, tasks or other
items linked to and arranged radially
around a central key word or idea. It is
used to generate, visualize, structure
and classify ideas, and as an aid in
study, organization, problem solving,
decision making, and writing.
Mind maps have been used for
centuries, for learning, brainstorming,
memory, visual thinking, and
problem solving by educators,
engineers, psychologists and people in
general.
Mind maps were developed in the late
60s by Tony Buzan, a British
psychologist and a business creativity
guru, as a way of helping students
make notes that used only key words
and images. They are much quicker to
make, and because of their visual
quality much easier to remember and
review. He made the modern Mind
Map popular in the 60s.
Mind Maps are useful for:
Summarizing information.
Consolidating information from
different research sources.
Thinking through complex
problems.
Presenting information in a format
that shows the overall structure of
your subject.
They are very quick to review as you
can often refresh information in your
mind just by glancing at one. In the
same way, they can be effective
mnemonics. Remembering the shape
and structure of a Mind Map can give
you the cues you need to remember
the information within it. As such,
they engage much more of your brain
in the process of assimilating and
connecting facts, compared with
conventional notes.
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Mind map guidelines:

Tony Buzan suggests using the

following foundation structures for
Mind Mapping:

Start in the center with an

image of the topic, using at
least 3 colors.

Use images, symbols, codes, Strengths of Mind Mapping:

and dimensions throughout
your Mind Map.
Select key words and print
using upper or lower case
letters.
Each word/image must be
alone and sitting on its own
line.
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.
Use emphasis and show
associations in your Mind
Map.
Keep the Mind Map clear by
using radial hierarchy,
numerical order or outlines to
embrace your branches.
Simplicity: ease of use.
Associative: any idea probably
has many links.
Visual: easy to remember.
Radial: always allows you to
work on all directions.
Overview: help to see the big
picture and relationship between
issues

Make the lines the same length

as the word/image.

Use colors – your own code –