What is Mind Map?
The wiki says “A mind
map is a diagram used to
visually outline information”. This technique was developed by Tony Buzan in
late 60’s. Mind Maps generally have a central node from which various branches radiate.
It facilitates natural thinking in a powerful graphical way. Mind map uses
lines symbols, words, colors and images to depict ideas.
Mind Map
was developed, after so much of research done on the working of our brain and
its ability to grasp things. It was basically developed from the concept of
radiant thinking. After the origin of Mind Maps various scientific researches
confirmed its validity as a brain compatible thinking method. Tony Buzan argues
that 'traditional' outlines require that the reader scans the information from
left to right and top to bottom, whilst the brain's natural preference is to
scan the entire page in a non-linear fashion.
How is it beneficial?
The great
advantage of a Mind Map is that it literally "maps" the way your
brain sees and creates connections. As Mind Maps are more visual and depicts
associations with images and keywords they are much easier to recall and also
understand. It helps us to see the whole picture – A bird’s eye view- thereby
making it easier to understand the connections and links.
It works
well during brainstorming, as it helps people associate the thoughts generated appropriately.
Moreover using a Mind Map we can analyze these thoughts more effectively.
How to create Mind Map?
A mind
map is often created around a single word or text, placed in the center, to
which associated ideas, words and concepts are added. Major categories radiate
from a central node, and lesser categories are sub-branches of larger branches.
You can create Mind Map in plain white paper/whiteboard and some color pencils.
There are
also many software tools available for creating Mind Maps. You can use those
tools to create your Mind Map and share it with others as well as store it for
future reference. Some tools available are blumind, FreeMind etc.
Some tips for creating Mind Maps
Use Images and symbols-
Use Colors
-
Use single words instead of long sentences
-
Uses curved lines and make it colorful
-
Use Picture for the central node
In a Nutshell
As
briefly overviewed Mind Maps are an excellent tool for learning and organizing
ideas. They can be used for many activities like any design process, brainstorming,
problem solving etc. The key point is that it is easy to learn new topics and easy
to connect distant ideas using Mind maps.
In my
next post I will share my thoughts on how we can make use of Mind Map for our
test activities.
Meanwhile
you can learn more about Mind Maps from the below links:
interesting
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