Mind Mapping - Step by Step

The first stage involves putting a title in bold, capital letters in the centre of your page. Although this example does not use pictures, it is best to use some kind of picture to help with recall of information.

This example is not perfect. To increase effectiveness, mind maps should preferably include:

• Pictures
• Colour
• Memorable words / cues to memory

The next stage involves adding main branches to your diagram that represent each of the areas of the topic being studied, or its related topics. 

The branches should extend far enough from your central image to avoid over-crowding the page and confusing information.

Ideally, pictures should be used to represent themes and concepts.

It helps if the branches are different colours and/or shapes.

The branches should be:

• Bold
• Bright
• Colourful
• Labelled memorably and clearly, preferably in colour (not shown in this example).

You should include as many aids to recall, such as pictures and key words, as you can.

STAGE THREE

The next stage involves adding sub-branches to your hierarchical diagram.

These branches are also coloured. You may find it helpful to use different shades of the colour used for the main branches.

Continue to label in bold, colourful lettering.

Continue using simple images to represent concepts and to make sense of your mind map.

Your completed mind - map or diagram should be:

• Bright

• Colourful

• Visually bold

• Aesthetically pleasing

• Ordered

• Meaningful to you

• Inclusive of Inter-relationships between headings / topics