![\"How](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/How-to-Make-a-Mind-Map-Header.jpg\")
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Mind maps<\/a> can be an effective tool for organizing information. Most commonly known for chronicle brainstorming sessions<\/a>, there are other perks to be enjoyed when using them such as improved learning and clearer thinking.<\/p>\n In this article, we’ll not only explain how to make a mind map, but we’ll also discuss techniques and best practices so you can get the most out of them.<\/p>\n The term \u201cmind map\u201d was first used and made popular by <\/span>Tony Buzan<\/span><\/a> in the 1970s. Although, prior to that, the use of diagrams that follow a similar structure dates back centuries<\/a>. <\/span><\/p>\n It is essentially a visual representation of organized information formatted into a hierarchical diagram. <\/span>Each idea or theme is connected to one another and the relationship between them is explored. The format of the diagram gives you a clear visualization of the data, which makes it easier to process, memorize, and organize it.<\/span><\/p>\n There are fancy tools and software that are designed especially for mind map making. But essentially, all you need to create a mind map is a piece of paper and a pen.<\/span><\/p>\n There are arguments for creating mind maps both digitally and in the old school way. Both carry benefits and downfalls, and what it comes down to is a personal preference.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n While some people like the benefits that come with actually writing things down such as memory and learning boosts, others may prefer the bells and whistles that come with using a mind mapping app<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Creating a mind map is a pretty straightforward exercise that can be enhanced with certain mind map ideas and guidelines. To get the most out of your diagram, Buzan recommends the following<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>guidelines<\/span><\/a>:<\/p>\n Zenkit<\/a> is a tool that allows you to view your information in multiple views, with one of them being a mind map view. It\u2019s a simple tool you can use to create mind maps with either existing data or you can create a new collection from scratch.<\/span><\/p>\n Here are the steps to take for creating a mind map in Zenkit.<\/span><\/p>\n You should now see this at the centre: This is where your mind map starts, it\u2019s your central image\/text.<\/span><\/p>\n The great thing about creating a mind map in Zenkit is that you can use items that already exist in your collection.<\/span><\/p>\n The items will be visible in the \u201cUnconnected\u201d panel on the left-hand side. To add an existing item as an attachment to an item in your mind map, simply drag and drop it <\/span>onto<\/span><\/i> the item.<\/span><\/p>\n To navigate around your mind map, you have the option to move around the items. Click and drag an item to move it around. Any descendant items will stay in the same configuration and move along with the item you\u2019re moving.<\/span><\/p>\n As the nature of mind maps is limitless, your diagram can get a little busy. With Zenkit, you have the option to hide branches on your map. All you have to do is click on the small folder icon to \u201ccollapse\u201d all the branches that appear after that item. Click on the folder to make the branches appear again.<\/span><\/p>\n For everything that you need to know about creating and using mind maps<\/a> in Zenkit, check out the <\/span>Knowledge Base<\/span><\/a>.<\/p>\n Mind maps are great for boosting memory, as well as improving critical thinking, creativity, and organization skills. Here are some mind-mapping examples you could try to help refine your skills:<\/span><\/p>\n One of the more well-known mind-mapping techniques is brainstorming. The free-flowing nature of the diagram makes it ideal for conducting brainstorming sessions at work, school, or even at home. A mind map\u2019s structure of starting with a focal point and expanding on it with associated concepts means there are no limits to the ideas you can come up with.<\/span><\/p>\n When it comes to making important decisions, using a mind map can be really beneficial. The ability to visualize the different outcomes of your decision can provide you with clearer thinking that can help you to make the best decision possible. Examining the pros and cons can give you an overview of the bigger picture.<\/span><\/p>\n The structure of a mind map enables you to map out complex predicaments which will allow you to analyze the situation as a whole and understand where the issue lies. This can help you to come up with a solution.<\/span><\/p>\n Planning an event<\/a> involves the coordination of various things such as guests, vendors, budget, and tasks. Using a mind map to present the information can make it easier to process as you can group the different things together.<\/span><\/p>\n Using a mind map for a presentation is an effective way to convey a message. The option to use images as well as text will not only make for better-presented information, but can give your message a bigger emphasis.<\/span><\/p>\n In comparison to traditional, linear note-taking techniques, a mind map design for taking notes <\/span>can provide an effective way for learning<\/a>.<\/span> The visual technique offers a better way to memorize notes. It\u2019s an ideal mind-mapping technique for students as well as workers taking notes during business meetings<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re solving an issue, planning a process, or developing tactics, using a mind map to outline the details is the perfect tool for strategic thinking. This makes it especially ideal for planning a business strategy.<\/span><\/p>\n The hierarchical arrangement of a mind map makes it a great technique for organizing the employees of a company or other organization. From the top executives to the creative team, the structure can clearly display who reports to whom and what department everyone belongs in.<\/span><\/p>\n The visual nature of a mind map makes it an ideal choice for mapping out ideas and concepts, and for grouping together associated themes and topics. This is why the diagram can be a great option for things such as planning an event, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.<\/p>\n While creating a mind map isn’t necessarily rocket science, it does help to know a few things regarding techniques and best practices<\/span> in order to get the best out of organizing data. And like the mind map itself, there are endless opportunities in how you can present your information.<\/span><\/p>\n Do you have further tips on how to make a mind map? Don’t forget to share them with us in the comment section below! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n Cheers,<\/p>\n Dinnie and the Zenkit Team<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Mind maps can be an effective tool for organizing information. Most commonly known to chronicle brainstorming sessions, there are other perks to be enjoyed when using them.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":91208,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"yasr_overall_rating":0,"yasr_post_is_review":"","yasr_auto_insert_disabled":"","yasr_review_type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[16661,16663],"tags":[11029,21,11030,117,11031],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/mind_map_ideas.jpeg\")
\nWhat Is a Mind Map?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\nKey Features of a Mind Map<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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\nHow to Make a Mind Map<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/zenkit-mind-map.jpg\")
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\nHow to Make a Mind Map in Zenkit<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/drop_item_start.png\")
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/mind_map_add_new_item.gif\")
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\nHow to Add Existing Items to Your Mind Map<\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/unconnected_items_mind_map.gif\")
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\nMoving Items<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/move_items_mind_map.gif\")
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\nCollapsible Branches<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/zenkit.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/08\/collapse_mind_map_branches.gif\")
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\n8 Mind Mapping Techniques<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Brainstorming Sessions<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Decision-Making<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Problem-Solving<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Event Planning<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Presentations<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Note-Taking<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Strategic Thinking<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
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Organization Structure<\/b><\/h3>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
\nFinal Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n