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MIND MAPPING BASICS

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All mind maps begin with a main concept or idea that the rest of the map revolves around, so choosing that idea or topic is the first step. Begin by creating an image or writing a word that represents that first main idea.

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From that main idea, create branches (as many as needed), that each represent a single word that relates to the main topic. It’s helpful to use different colors and images to differentiate the branches and sub-topics.

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Then, create sub-branches that stem from the main branches to further expand on ideas and concepts. These sub-branches will also contain words that elaborate on the topic of the branch it stems from. This helps develop and elaborate on the overall theme of the mind map. Including images and sketches can also be helpful in brainstorming and creating the sub-branch topics.

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"Teaching and Learning with Mind Maps." Inspiration            Software Inc., www.inspiration.com/visual-                    learning/mind-mapping.

Ukbraintrainer. "How to Make a Mind Map-Version 1." YouTube, 30                 Sept. 2007, www.youtube.com/watch?v=v8_H42Z9wxA.

​MIND MAPPING TIPS

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  • Use symbols to classify different types of thoughts and ideas.

  • Use keywords on lines. Short phrases can also work well.

  •  Use multi-headed arrows of varying color, size, style and dimensions.

  •  Use codes to help draw your attention to specific sections of the map.

  •  Use good spacing between topics to separate your ideas.

  •  Use stimulating images and colors throughout the map.

  •  Use images to represent words in a metaphorical, sound-like, or in a direct manner.

  •  Create boundaries and borders to draw attention to specific branches.

  •  Create linear hierarchies of ordered numbers, lists and letters.

  •  Create line-hierarchies by radiating from thick to thin lines.

  •  Create word-hierarchies by varying word sizes to emphasize importance.

  •  Create memorable central image and associative pictures.

  •  Draw different shapes to represent ideas and segments of the map.

  •  Draw multi-dimensional words and objects.

  •  Draw thick branches that radiate outwards away from the central image.

  •  Vary word-case. Use UPPER and lower case to emphasize importance of words.

  •  Vary font styles to separate ideas and topics.

  •  Vary branch colors in order to separate topics.

  •  Vary branch endings in order to emphasize words or phrases.

  •  Vary branch thickness in order to highlight specific ideas.

  • Vary image/picture colors, emphasis, and size to enhance memory and recall.

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Sicinski, Adam. "Mind Map Rules." How to Mind Map Guide, IQ Matrix, blog.iqmatrix.com/how-to-mind-map.

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