How to Make a Mind Map

Mind mapping is one of the more common types of information processing. It should be used when a writer encounters writers' block or when the writer is having trouble organizing thoughts or ideas. Problem solvers can use mind maps to address creative challenges without prejudgement and to allocate resources effectively.

Mind mapping visualization spawns ideas that are connected to a central topic, but the technique can also be used to "flesh out" ideas that have already been targeted as potential solutions. Mind mapping is often used by writers to gather their thoughts and ideas before they lay pen to paper. A mind map should be a web-like structure of words and ideas that are loosely tied to one another. Here are some guidelines for crafting a useful mind map.