MGH Guides: Personal Knowledge Management: Mind Mapping

What is Mind Mapping?

Image: Cubital Fossa2, by Maen K. Househ. Wikimedia Commons, Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0. File:Cubital Fossa2.png - Wikimedia Commons.

Mind mapping is a powerful technique for brainstorming and organizing ideas in a visually intuitive way. By placing a central concept at the center of the diagram and branching out with related ideas, a Mind Map helps capture thoughts and information without the constraints of traditional linear structures. This non-linear layout mirrors the brain’s natural thought processes, making it easier to analyze, recall, and understand complex topics. Mind maps transform overwhelming lists of information into colorful, engaging diagrams that are not only easier to remember but also highly effective for problem-solving, planning, and creative thinking.

Mind Mapping Tools

Coggle
Coggle is a freeware mind mapping web application. Coggle produces hierarchically structured documents, like a branching tree
MindMup
Mindmup is a mind map or graphic organizer used to brainstorm ideas, explore concepts and create a better understanding of relationships and connections.
Miro’s mind map maker
Miro’s mind map maker is a way for teams to capture, organize, and map out their ideas in a structured way.
SimpleMind
SimpleMind is a mind mapping software application. The software provides ways for users to visualize information in mind maps and flowcharts.
Canva
Canva's mind map maker lets you visually organize ideas in a collaborative way. Choose from customizable templates and add branches of information. You can create and edit mind maps for free.

Mind Map Example

In the following video, you'll learn a quick and easy method for creating a mind map using Google Drive.