Mind Maps

What are mind maps?  Mind maps are linear, spatial and graphical representations of associations.  The subject matter of study is taken to be central point and all associations are linked to it as branches.  Branches will again contain a key word or image.  Sub branches of the branches indicate that the branch is of lesser importance or lower down in the hierarchy.  Often color is used to enhance the look and feel of a mind map.

In note taking Mind Maps provide a visual presentation of the topic under study. The macro mind map will link the sub topics to the main topic and the sub topic will then be linked to sub-sub topics or ideas contained in the paragraphs.  Micro mind maps can also be drawn for each sub section and then linked together to form the macro mind map.  Macro mind maps of a lesson can be linked to macro maps of other lessons to form a macro mind map for a book.

The Advent of computers has made the creation of mind maps easy. There are a number of software tools which help in the process.

Making Mind Maps

1. Take a sheet of paper and in the landscape orientation draw a circle in the center and write the topic of the lesson or a multi colored image representing the lesson topic.

2. Attach main themes to the central image and print the key words in large capital letters and connect the ideas to the central point using radial lines.

3. Use thick lines to emphasize the hierarchy of the ideas.

4. Now relate the key points to sub points using fishbone or hayfork methods.

5. You can also segment the themes by drawing boundary lines round themes

6. You can use personalized codes and abbreviations to customize the mind map to your needs

7. Mnemonics can be used for key points for ease of remembering.

Uses of Mind Maps

Mind maps can be used for taking lecture notes using a spaced listening technique. This technique involves listening for two or three minutes and writing for one minute.   Key words are captured and recorded and the gaps allow for time for reflection and concentration.  This technique can also be used to prepare lecture notes or speeches. It is extremely useful in keeping track of issues while preparing reports, minutes of meetings.  It is used by those who want to brainstorm on topics.  Finally it is very useful for the student preparing for an exam. 

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