Mind Maps

by Yuvi - February 21, 2021

Mind Maps

The Mind Map, popularized by Tony Buzon, is similar to a concept map.
They hold information in a format that our mind finds quick to review and easy to remember.
It is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea.
The elements are arranged intuitively according to their importance.
The are classified into branches with the goal of representing semantic or other connections between portions of information.
Mind maps have many applications in personal, family, educational and business situations.
Mind Map improves the way we take notes and supports and enhances our creative problem-solving.
One can also use mind maps as a mnemonic technique to sort out complicated ideas.

A comparison between concept maps and mind maps

Definition:-

Concept Map- A concept map is a top-down diagram showing the relationships between concepts, including cross connections among concepts, and their manifestations (examples).

Mind Map – A mind map is a multi-coloured and image-centred, radial diagram that represents semantic or other connections between portions of learned material hierarchically.

Main function or benefit:-

Concept Map – Shows systematic relationships among sub-concepts relating to one main concept.

Mind Map – Show sub-topics of a domain in a creative and seamless manner.

Typical application context:-

Concept Map – Classroom teaching, self study and revision.

Mind Map – Personal note taking and reviewing.

Application guidelines:-

Concept Map – Use it as a learning support tool for students, that is, to summarize key course topics or clarify the elements and examples of an abstract concept.

Mind Map – Use it for pre-analytic idea jostles or rapid note-taking, or to structure the main contents of a course or topic hierarchically.

Employed graphic elements:-

Concept Map – Boxes/bubbles with text and labelled connector arrows.

Mind Map – Central topic bubble and colored (sub-) branches with text above branches, pictograms.

Reading direction:-

Concept Map – Top-down.

Mind Map – Center-out.

Core design rules or guidelines:-

Concept Map – Start with main concept (at the top), and end with examples (bottom, without circles); boxes/bubbles designate concepts, arrows represent relationships; include cross-links among elements.

Mind Map – Start with main topic (center) and branch out to sub-topics, employ pictograms and colors to add additional meaning. Write text above the branches.