Are you fond of writing and always looking for different tools that help you describe your thoughts clearly and creatively? Did you know that in Making Learning Visible, researchers have shared how mind maps enable productive learning?

What is a Mind Map? 

A mind map is a diagram that allows you to organize information in a well-structured manner. Many writers or students prefer using this technique to prevent them from jumbling up all the information together. 

How to Create a Mind Map? 

The primary purpose of creating a mind map is to ensure that you organize your thoughts, generate new ideas, and boost creativity. 

Step 1: Come Up with the Main Concept 

Before you create a mind map, you should have the central concept in mind so that you can expand it however you wish. As the main idea will be the topic you brainstorm on, make sure that it is clear and accurate. 

Step 2: Add Branches 

Once the central concept is clear, you can start adding branches around the topic. The extensions can be your subtopics as they will help you organize your information. You can also prioritize which content you need to put first through this. 

Step 3: Add Images and Colours 

If you have different thoughts spread over your mind map, using different colours will immediately help you differentiate between topics. Also, when you use images, you will visualize and memorize other parts of your mind map with ease. 

Using a Mind Map 

Once you have successfully created a mind map, the next step should focus on utilizing it properly. Make sure you leave empty spaces for including additional information later on. Also, place your mind map somewhere accessible, like on your writing table, so you can read and edit it whenever new ideas come up. 

What Benefits Does a Mind Map Offer? 

It Helps with Memorization 

Are you one of those people who prefer writing things down as it helps you memorize things easily and quickly? When you use mind maps, you will be creative with your learning process and retain essential points. A study known as The Efficacy of the Mind Map Study Technique was conducted by researchers, and they found out that mind maps help boost memorization by 10 to 15%. 

It Makes Complex Topics Easy to Understand 

You might have experienced this yourself, that when you write down something and read it to yourself, it seems less complex. So if you’re facing difficulty memorizing something, try to create a mind map for it. You will see quickly you can absorb that information. In his 2017 survey of mind maps, Chuck Frey of Mind Mapping Software Blog shared how most respondents shared that mind mapping helps with an improved understanding of complex issues. 

It Improves Your Writing 

As mind mapping requires you to put your writing skills to use, it will help you practice and improve your writing. Also, people who practice mind mapping are better organized, as they know how to connect ideas and jot down paragraphs. If you need help getting started with mind mapping, check out my printable mind map planner in the shop!