Mind Mapping Concept & Resources

Definition Mind maps are tools that help us think and remember better, creatively solve problems and take action. The mind map encourages creativity and flexibility, and you need these to make your resolutions happen! Mind maps help you think outside the box. gallery_mindmaps.html

Definition 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. It is used to generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, organization, problem solving, and decision making.

Benefits Avoiding thinking linearly, Opening up to creativity, Getting the whole picture, Visualize your ideas, Understanding inter-relationships, Increasing summarizing and abstracting efficiency, … and more. “The idea behind the mind map is to think creatively in a non-linear manner.”

Applications Mind maps have many applications  Decision making,  Problem solving,  Education/learning,  Note taking,  Speeches,  Presentations,  … and others.  Brainstorming,

Guidelines Start in the center with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors. Use images, symbols, codes, 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.

Guidelines Make the lines the same length as the word/image. Use colors – your own code – throughout the Mind Map. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping. 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..

Guidelines

Mind Mapping & Brainstorming The Mind Mapping tool enables group members to create an infinite number of thoughts, ideas, links and associations on any topic making it an ideal tool to stimulate group thinking. It can also be used to capture ideas rather than having hundreds of flipchart's posted around the room! A Mind Map of all ideas can be viewed and distributed quickly and easily. Using mind maps in brainstorming sessions should comply with the brainstorming rules.

Mind Mapping Software Mind Mapping software is used to create diagrams of relationships between ideas or other pieces of information; with some software packages provide 3-D maps. It has been suggested that mind mapping software can improve learning/study efficiency up to 15% over traditional pen & paper tools. Mind Mapping software may be classified in to: Open-source software, Free software, and Proprietary (paid) software. For complete list of mind mapping software visit:

Let’s Try it !!

Prepared by: Ossama El-Badawy Head of Business Intelligence Unit MAC Carpet March 2008