Mind maps are an excellent study and learning tool.
Research has shown that mind maps can improve learning and memory by 10 to 15%.
To know what a mind map is, it is a graphic technique that is used to represent information that is normally visualised in our minds. You have to remember that our minds mainly operate in a non-linear manner.
In other words, our minds are always all over the place. And we find it hard to concentrate. Especially on a difficult subject since our minds tend to wander a great deal.
By utilising a mind map, it helps to makes sense of our cluttered thought process and turn it in to something that is understandable and relatable to our own brains.
The Theory Behind Mind Maps
As noted by Nobel-prize winning neurpsychologist, Roger Sperry, the main control centre of our brain, known as the cerebral cortex, is
split into two major hemispheres. And these hemispheres are responsible for performing a range of intellectual tasks, known cortical skills. These include: imagination, logic, rhythm, colour, lines, lists, daydreaming, numeracy and literacy.
Sperry noted the more we combine and integrate these skills, the brain becomes more co-operative and more engaged. By creating mind maps, we are using an entire range of cortical skills.
Conventional learning relies on taking notes and logical thinking. So we are not utilising our own brain's full potential. And it's why we have difficulty remembering and learning.
The mind mapping technique has been around for quite some time. One of the earliest users of this technique was artist and thinker
Leonardo Da Vinci. Da Vinci's own mind maps were retrieved from his highly cherished notebooks.
But mind maps didn't become popular until 1974, when author Tony Buzan introduced the mind map technique on BBC television in 1974. And he shared the following seven steps to help everyone start their own mind map.
The Seven-Step Process of Creating Your Own Mind Map
1. Start at the centre
Using a blank page, write down the name of the topic in the centre. Since mind maps tend to use both the logical and creative sides of our brains, you can use either words or images to describe the topic.
2. Use images or pictures
As stated by Tom Buzan, a picture is worth a thousand words. Images can utilise your imagination to allow ideas to emerge from the brain. And this is because imagination can inspire creativity.
3. Use colours on your mind map
Using colours on your mind map, as well as images, can help to stimulate the brain and create new ideas in the process. Also, by adding colours to your mind map, it will give it a lease of life. Using a different colour for each sub-topic will help you remember and colour code your mind map too.
4. Create branches from the main topic area
A topic is made up of various sub-topics. And each of these sub-topics will have their own sub-topics and so on. Some of these sub-topics may relate to other branches on the mind map and you can join them together.
5. Curve branching (not straight)
When branching out your mind map, Buzan advises to use curved lines. Not straight. And this is simply because straight lines look more boring — which is a fair explaination if you ask me.
6. One keyword per branch
A mind map shouldn't be too wordy. It needs to be concise and to the point. Another reason why Buzan advises to use only one keyword per branch is because it allows flexibility.
7. Use images throughout your mind map
If one image is worth a thousand words, then having 10 images is worth 10,000 words.
The above should be taken as guidelines. Nothing more. We shouldn't feel constricted when we're making mind maps. If you don't feel like using colours or curved lines, then use black ink and straight lines. It is your mind map after all.
To help you visualise how to use a mind map, here's a YouTube video of Tony Buzan explaining how you can use the technique:
[embed]https://youtu.be/u5Y4pIsXTV0[/embed]
Not Just For Learning…
Mind maps are not just for learning and can be used in many ways. You can use it for problem solving, brainstorming new ideas and project management. You'll be surprised by how many ways you can use a mind map in your everyday life.
Thanks for reading. What do you think of mind maps? Let us know in the comments section below.
Featured image:
Pixabay
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