Mind map concept and structure
Mind map, English name: Mindmap, is also called a mind map or a brain map due to different translations. It is an effective divergence Sexual thinking tools. A mind map is essentially a visual diagram that can restore the brain's process of thinking and generating ideas. By capturing and expressing divergent thinking, an external representation of the brain's internal processes can be made.
The characteristics of divergent mind maps can be briefly summarized as the following three points:
1. The central theme is used to record the main content, such as using a mind map to describe a physical object. , then you need to place the image of the actual object in the center.
2. The branches extend and diverge from this image. First, it will be divided into secondary themes, which are directly connected to the central theme. Then the third-level themes and more sub-themes will also be expressed in the form of branches and attached to the parent theme.
3. A branch is composed of an image or word, connected with lines, and together form a mind map.
The Development of Mind Maps
In recent years, with the development and progress of society, work efficiency has become an important skill indicator. Mind mapping, as an outstanding efficiency tool, has attracted much attention. Searching for the word "mind map" in Baidu Index, the demand for mind maps is increasing year by year. It is foreseeable that in the next few years, mind maps will gradually become a mainstream tool and be accepted by the public.
In order to adapt to the needs of rapid social development, mind mapping methods have also shown diversified forms. The earliest mind maps required the use of pens and drawing paper to draw; because the efficiency of this method was extremely low, more and more efficient drawing methods emerged. For example, the popular computer mind mapping today mainly uses computer tools to assist in drawing. Its representative computer drawing tools include MindMaster, Baidu Brain Map, Edraw Max, etc.
The advancement of technology will inevitably further promote the efficiency of mind mapping. The development of voice recognition technology can realize voice-controlled drawing of mind maps, without hand drawing or keyboard input. Direct voice input can be freely operated. In addition, with the maturity of the mobile Internet, many drawing software can be installed on mobile electronic products, which greatly facilitates users to draw, and it becomes possible to create and share mind maps anytime and anywhere.
Common tools for mind mapping
The hand-drawing method of mind mapping is the most primitive drawing method, which pays more attention to inheritance and art; but for practicality, computer software is used Drawing a mind map is the most efficient way. Nowadays, many software manufacturers have developed mind mapping software to meet the drawing needs of the public. Among them, the more well-known software such as MindMaster, Edraw Max, FreeMind and Baidu Mind Map. Because the software development methods and user objects are different, there are certain differences between each software. In terms of the convenience of operation and platform (online version, computer, mobile phone), MindMaster is the most suitable choice.
How to draw using software
Before using software to draw, in addition to online mind mapping tools on the web, you need to install drawing software in advance. For novices, the online version is more convenient. You can try using the MindMaster online version web link
For specific operations, you can visit the detailed tutorials on the MindMaster official website.
Mind mapping tips
If you want to know more about the mysteries of mind mapping, you must know the top ten tips. These will guide you to have a deeper understanding of mind mapping.
1. Use appropriate drawing tools
Whether it is paper and pen or software, make sure that the tool can help you achieve the best practical results. In different scenarios, everyone has different needs for mind mapping. If you focus on the storage and sharing of documents, manual drawing is not a suitable method, and drawing with computer software can solve this problem.
2. Follow the brain to add branches to the central theme
The central theme will trigger the brain to produce more associations. During the drawing process, be sure to follow the hierarchy given by the brain. Under normal circumstances, a good mind map structure can be formed naturally as long as it follows the brain's free association.
3. Pay attention to differentiation
The main branches will contain your basic classification standards, so you need to pay special attention. Topics at each level need to use different font sizes to distinguish them.
4. Use keywords and images
Facts have proven that using keywords or images on branches is more conducive to the synergy between the left and right brains. Special attention should be paid to viewing all branches, text, and pictures as an organic whole.
5. Establish connections
Use functions such as relationship lines, summaries, annotations, and attachments to connect different content, which helps the brain recognize the inner connections between things. Easy to understand.
6. Have fun
In the process of mind map creation, you should put down your stress and worries and indulge in the fun of creation. Because a relaxed and positive attitude is more conducive to managing information and drawing excellent mind maps.
7. Copy the images around you
Learn to copy or imitate the beautiful images around you, so that your brain can constantly accept new knowledge and ideas. As you create, your brain automatically retrieves information that can improve your mind mapping skills.
8. Be an absurd version of yourself
During the creative process, no matter how absurd content is generated in the brain, it must be recorded. Maybe these flashes of inspiration are the kind of things that will bring about major breakthroughs.
9. Prepare a suitable office environment
There is no doubt that the working environment will affect a person's working status. When creating a mind map, make sure the environment is comfortable, such as having enough fresh air, comfortable lighting, and a quiet atmosphere.
10. Make it unforgettable
The brain has a natural tendency toward beauty. Therefore, the more eye-catching colors are attached to your mind map, the more your brain will remember. When creating, you might as well add some layers and decorations to the entire work.
The application of mind mapping in various fields
The ultimate goal of learning mind mapping is to master the skills and apply them, so that the skill of mind mapping can truly exert its value . Facing different fields and having a clear understanding of its functions and drawing methods, the gap between you and the master of mind mapping will no longer be far away.
The application scope of mind mapping can be briefly summarized into these three scenarios: life, study and work. In daily life, we can use mind maps to make plans, lists, travel plans, etc.
Mind maps are also commonly used in learning. Teachers can use MindMaster to make course handouts to help students quickly memorize knowledge points. In actual performance, maps can indeed bring unexpected gains.
In terms of work, MindMaster mind mapping is also of great use. Gantt charts can be generated with one click from the map, which can be used for project management and other aspects.