Hi folks from Di.
I have been using 'MIND MAPPING" techniques for many years and have found them a great way to stimulate ideas and organise my creative thoughts.
Although I have software that helps me create mind maps, I find that a hand drawn mind map is more "me", and I remember it better!
So what is a mind map???
A Mind map is a visual representation of an idea and all that stems from that idea. A Mind map forces us to make that transition from the LEFT SIDE of the brain to the FUN RIGHT SIDE.
How to create a mind map:
Mind mapping involves writing down a central idea and thinking up new and related ideas which radiate out from the centre. By focussing on key ideas written down in your own words, and then looking for branches out and connections between the ideas, you are mapping knowledge in a manner which will help you understand and remember new information.
Draw quickly on unlined paper without pausing, judging or editing:
All of these things promote linear thinking. The idea of mind mapping is to think creatively and in a non-linear manner. There will be plenty of time for modifying the information later on but at this stage it is important to get every possibility into the mind map. Sometimes it is one of those obscure possibilities that may become the key to your knowledge of a topic.
Write down key ideas:
Some people find that using CAPITAL LETTERS encourages them to get down only the key points. Capitals are also easier to read in a diagram. You may, however, wish to write down some explanatory notes in lower case. .
Put the main idea in the centre:
Most people find it useful to turn their page on the side and do a mind map in "LANDSCAPE" style. With the main idea or topic in the middle of the page this gives the maximum space for other ideas to radiate out from the centre.
Leave lots of space:
Some of the most useful mind maps are those which are added to over a period of time. After the initial drawing of the mind map you may wish to highlight things, add information or add questions for the duration of a subject right up until exam time. For this reason it is a good idea to leave lots of space.
How can YOU use mind maps?
For anything and everything!!! You can use them for:
- Planning Holidays
- Planning Parties
- Plannng Layouts
- Planning your A to Z journal
- At work planning and REMEMBERING a presentation you have to make.
Here are just a few sources you can refer to :
Mind mapping software:
And here is a mind map that I drew with the software:
Why use mind maps?
http://members.optusnet.com.au/~charles57/Creative/Mindmap/Radiant.html
That's it from me for today and happy mapping your mind LOL.
Love from Di XXX
Comments