Greetings to all readers of the site. With you, as always, Ekaterina Kalmykova. And right away I have a question for you: do you systematize your thoughts and if so, how? Do you have any way to put things in order in your head? I have - I use mind maps. And in this article I will share with you my experience in compiling them and show my examples of mind maps.

The concept of a mental map


The example I have drawn is quite simple and clear. Typically, the scheme looks much more branched, as it can fix a huge number of connections between objects.

Thanks to the use of such cards, a person perceives a large amount of information better and easier, because it is difficult for our brain to perceive information in the form of a sheet of text or a bunch of tables. It is much easier if the same information is presented in a visual form, which is diluted with color, supplemented by drawings and based on associations.

Benefits of using mind maps

1. Excellent helpers in mastering new material. The process is much faster, more fun and more efficient.

2. Super planners. They make it very easy to make a plan for the day, write a to-do list, highlight the most important items, etc.

3. Storage of thoughts. Write down everything that comes to your mind while working with the map. As a rule, your brain sends you interesting and useful information about the task or idea you are visualizing.

4. Wonderful reminder. Here it is impossible not to recall the Russian proverb "what is written with a pen, you cannot cut it with an ax." What is on the map is hard to ignore. This means that the probability of completing the task is much higher.

5. Mind maps are suitable for large projects that are initially intimidating to undertake. But once you start visualizing, everything falls into place. The whole mega project is gradually unwinding like a ball, and an ordered map of sequential actions appears in front of you.

How to create mind maps

I would single out two ways of creating mental maps (mind maps): manual and software.

For manual way you just need to take a paper sheet, preferably a landscape one, pens, pencils, felt-tip pens.

Programmatic way is the use computer programs. Considering both methods, you can see that they have both their pros and cons. Using a certain program, you can easily fix your mind map, change something in it and you do not have to redraw it completely.

It is also much more convenient to carry a mental map on electronic media than an album sheet. The disadvantage of working in the program is its stereotypedness, limitations in drawing and visual expression of one's thoughts.

Programs for creating mental maps

The programs listed below can be easily found on the Internet, but please note that they are both paid and free. Therefore, choose your assistant according to your liking.

I will highlight the following:

— Mindmeister. How to work in this program and examples of maps can be viewed.

— freemind. I use this program quite often. In it, you can easily and quickly create a memory card. Read more about working in the program in the article.

Rules for creating mental maps

When creating mind maps, you need to follow a few simple rules.

  1. Use one mind map to express thoughts or ideas on one topic.
  2. It is best to place the sheet horizontally (whether it is a paper sheet or a sheet on a computer monitor), since the human eye perceives information best of all in this way. Remember how information is arranged on the TV, on the blackboard at school, or on the monitor.
  3. As a rule, the main subject (task, idea) is placed in the center, which gradually acquires logical connections and interconnected branches. These can be goals, sub-goals, points, sub-points, etc.
  4. It is desirable to highlight all connections in different colors, use icons, symbols, pictures. This is how you design everything visually using your associations. All graphic elements help to depict an understandable mental map. It is important not to overdo it here. The map should make the information presented easier to understand, not the other way around. The mental map should be bright and expressive, but at the same time simple.

Where can I use it with a mind map

In my opinion, mind maps can be used in different areas of activity. Mind mapping is useful for many categories: managers, employees of any company, teachers, journalists, etc. In addition, it can also be used in our Everyday life to solve household problems.

The following areas of application can be distinguished:

1. Diverse tasks at work. Projects whose purpose is the development, implementation of something. Various organizational events.

2. Projects in your personal life. With the help of mind maps, you can plan the organization of a banquet, planning a vacation or going to the country))

3. Lists of tasks.

4. Organizational structures companies and organizations.

5. Designing the structure of sites, program interfaces.

6. Structuring texts. Make the content, speech plan, report agenda.

7. Presentations in the form of a mind map.

8. Lecture notes

Mistakes when using mind maps

When you create a mind map for the first time, pay attention to the most common mistakes that occur during work:

  1. Too complex and highly branched mental map. Such a map will only confuse, not clarify everything.
  2. Same patterns and colors for different branches.
  3. Missing pictures and icons
  4. Ambiguity and randomness. All elements must be interconnected

In fact, I have been familiar with mental maps for a long time. I just did not know about the existence of certain programs and scientific concepts. Always at the institute at lectures, in order to have time to write down and remember everything, I drew circles, arrows, figures that were understandable only to me. These were my mind maps that helped me graduate with honors. Now, being no longer a student, I actively use mental maps in my daily work. Very often I use a mind map before writing an article for a blog.

Surely you are using something similar?

I hope after reading the article you will be able to make it easier for yourself to draw up mind maps: choose the program that is most convenient for you and go ahead!

And I also want to introduce you to the Krutetsky book by H. Muller “Mental Mapping. Method for generating and structuring ideas. very interesting and useful book. Download, study and put into practice! Download HERE!

Do not forget: the best thanks to me is the repost of the article 🙂

Best regards, Ekaterina Kalmykova

“If you don’t break your brains, you’ll break firewood”

There are dozens, maybe hundreds of methods for “pumping” your brain, because it is fraught with many possibilities, access to which is often limited to us. “Eat dark chocolate”, “Hang stickers around the house”, “Start with the most important things” and many other tips can be found on the Internet, the essence of which boils down to one thing - push our brain to fast work, run it on to the fullest or even "cheat". And everything to receive maximum benefit- do a lot of things, remember more information, defeat laziness and so on. Man has always tried to squeeze the maximum of his capabilities.

In the 80s of the twentieth century, another such method was invented - Mind Mapping technology or the use of mental maps. And as practice shows, the method is far from the worst, and deserves attention.

In this article, we will consider the following questions:

For those who like to listen more than read - my interesting (hopefully) talk on GetDev:

What is a mental map?

What is this technology?
“In this world, to stand still, you need to run”

The use of mental maps is a technique for visualizing thinking, with which you can process some information better and more efficiently. Mind maps have many different names:

The technology is widely used for many purposes:

  • Fixation information. Mental maps are a convenient form of data recording, which allows presenting it in a capacious form even with a large volume.
  • memorization information. When you write down something in a convenient easy form, it is automatically deposited in your head.
  • Easy Access to information. Data recorded in the form of mental maps is easy to remember even with just one glance.
  • Analysis information. The mental map is built in such a way that it allows you to see previously unnoticed connections between its parts, small unaccounted for details, which can be very valuable when making decisions. Also, with its help, you can look at all the information as a whole, in a comprehensive manner, which generally helps to understand the topic and better understand this data.

Mind maps help to easily operate with information, which makes them very useful in many areas of our lives:

Why apply it?


“A thought repeated twice is well remembered.
A thought repeated twice is well remembered.

Mental maps help when working with any data, improve the ability of the brain to perceive information, but why?

The first reason lies in the very construction of the map - it is depicted in a radial form, the key image is in the center, and further branches diverge from it. it simplifies the flow of information to the brain- after all, we also see the world around us as a whole - the central image and the details around it.

The second reason also lies in the processing of information by our brain - visualization generally improves perception. We remember words with pictures 6 times better than just words.

When building a mental map various abilities of our thinking are activated. When making branches and keywords we use hierarchies, for pictures - visualization and associative thinking, in general, spatial-figurative thinking is used. All this activates memory and allows you to remember both the data structure and their important aspects, so the use of mental maps improves the memorization of information by about 32%.

Since we use various thinking abilities to build mental maps, such as creativity, logic, imagination, All of them develop and improve in the process.

Since mind maps show the whole picture, this allows establish all relationships between objects, even if initially they were not so obvious. In turn, this gives rise to new point vision information, as well as new ideas and thoughts. The structure and logic of the data become more “transparent”, easy to understand and remember.

Another compelling argument in favor of using mind maps is that this technique is very easy to learn., and you can remember information with its help immediately, in in large numbers and very efficient. There is little to write about saves a lot of time.

How is it different from regular records?
“Clarity gives focus”

Linear notation is the main form of information recording that we use at school, university, work, and in many many institutions. It is used in manuals, books, posters and generally everywhere. Therefore, the use of such a form seems logical, convenient and correct.

But maybe it's just a matter of habit? There are some differences between linear records and mind maps that might make it worth changing your habits.

  • All structure vertical textual information is entirely sufficient hard to see, and in order to view everything, additional actions may be required, such as turning or scrolling the page. And the maps are built on a circular principle, and with one glance you can take in everything that is depicted.
  • Linear List"psychologically" not finished, it can be continued, which does not allow us to perceive it holistically. The finished map has all the elements in its place, it is thought out, arranged and cohesive.
  • Our brain is not in the best way remembers monotonous entries, unlike a variety of pictures, multi-colored branches and colorfully designed keywords.

  • In ordinary records, quite hard to single out most main idea , it is lost in numerous lists, highlighted and underlined words. On the mental map, the main object of study is always in the center, and it is from it that secondary branches and additional information diverge.

  • Since we use visualizations when building a mental map, we use right hemisphere brain responsible for aesthetics and thinking about the problem in general. It is due to this that we can think about what is depicted on the map from different angles. With linear records, this involvement of the right hemisphere of the brain is minimal.

  • Line records take up a lot of time, after all, a person does not write very quickly by hand. We have to shorten the words, they are not always written clearly, and this is at the expense of the quality of the recordings.

Are mind maps popular?

Who Invented Mind Maps?

Analogues of various link diagrams have been used since quite early times, but the creator modern technique mental maps, as we know it now, is Tony Buzan, an English psychologist, author and co-author of more than 80 books, the most famous of which are Superthinking and Teach Yourself to Think. The first book describing the technique of mental maps was published in 1974 - “Work with your head”.
“In my second year at university, I once went to the library and asked if they had any books on the theory of the brain and its practical possibilities. The librarian, without hesitation, referred me to the department of medical literature!

When I explained that I was not going to perform operations on the brain, but only to use it correctly, they politely answered me that they apparently did not have such books in their library.

I walked out in complete amazement.

Like my other classmates, I was in a state known to any average student: the growing awareness that as your workload increases, your brain is increasingly losing ground in the face of high demands on thinking, creativity, memory, the ability to solve problems, analyze and "compose" in the course of written works. Like others, I increasingly encountered the phenomenon of giving back to academic work falls, despite the efforts made, and at times it seems to be zero at all. The paradox was that, as it seemed to me, the more I took notes and taught, the worse the result was!

The logical consequence of both possible strategies of action in that situation was, as it seemed to me, a dead end. If I make less effort, a lot of important information falls into the category of not learned, and, as a result, a failure in the exam. If I continued with even greater tenacity - taking notes in more detail and spending more and more time on it - the result would be the same downward spiral of success.

The key to true success, I finally reasoned, was to be found in answering the question of how rationally I use my intellect in general and thinking abilities in particular, and this realization led me to the library.

When I came out of it that day, it suddenly occurred to me that the problem I had with not finding the right literature might come in handy. Since no such books have yet been written, I have stepped into protected territory, where there is genuine scope for an inquisitive mind.”

Are they used in the world?
Over time, the expediency of a particular technique is always determined by the number of people who use it. More than 40 years have passed since the release of the first description of the methodology, but nevertheless, the technique of mental maps lives on, develops, and, most importantly, is used. Let's turn to Google Trends:

In general, mind mapping has been a consistently used query over the past 11 years. countries with the largest number such requests suddenly turned out to be Indonesia and Thailand. Completely different statistics in Russia. Only in 2011, this technique began to enjoy interest in our country:

Why don't people use them everywhere?
Like everything in our world, the mind mapping technique also has disadvantages:
  • Complex, complex states of affairs are simplified, and many the details are highly generalized. Created appearance of order where it doesn't exist. Sometimes this is useful, but sometimes it only creates the illusion that the situation is under control, the illusion of a common understanding of the problem and the absence of complex hidden relationships.

  • Since pictures are used in the construction of maps, associative thinking is turned on. But associations- dynamic stuff change and transform over time, and what evoked one association six months ago does not evoke exactly the same one now. Such pictures direct the flow of thoughts when reading the card in a completely different direction than it was originally planned. “False” associations eventually slow down the understanding of the data on the map.

  • A mental map is a reflection of someone's thinking, either one person-compiler, or a group of such people, therefore cards mostly purely individual. If the card is given to another person to read, it may happen that he either does not understand some of the details, or, even worse, misunderstands them.
  • When processing large or complex data when building a map, it may turn out complex picture, with multiple divisions, with huge number links, branches and keywords. The effectiveness of such a mental map drops significantly.

This is one of the reasons why the mind mapping technique has not yet supplanted linear notation. But there are imaginary shortcomings that lie in the way of applying this technique:

  • Ignorance about technology. The popularity of mind maps has not yet reached such a scale that everyone knows about them.
  • Opinion "I can not draw". Many people think that this is a serious obstacle to map construction, but in fact such skill is not required. Moreover, there is a simple exercise that helps to prove that everyone can draw the minimum set of characters. Try:

  • The belief that it's child's play and a true professional is useless. In fact, every self-respecting professional has his own set of different tools for achieving goals: visualization, planning, time management and others. And the fact that many people around the world use mental maps is an indicator of the effectiveness of this tool.
  • mental maps longer to do than linear records. At first, at the beginning of the application of this technique, it will indeed be so - as in learning any new business. But in the future, the cards will click like nuts, much faster than ordinary notes.
  • Belief “I think linearly” and “I’ve been using linear notes all my life, and it’s fine.” Yes, linear records have become a part of our lives since the age of seven, and then it is much more convenient and habitual to use them, even in our thoughts. But isn't it just a habit? And if other methods are more effective, why not try them?
  • Opinion “Mental maps cannot be used for everyday tasks". On the contrary, this technique is used for all areas of life where decision-making, any lists, analysis of something is required. This includes almost every area of ​​our daily life.

How to create a mental map?

“Every artist was at first an amateur”

To build mental maps, it is enough to follow certain simple principles. For example, let's try to create a mental map for this entire article.

First you need a clean horizontally rotated area, such as a sheet, whiteboard, tablet, phone, or workspace in graphic editors. The more data you process, the larger workspace you will need. I will be doing my example using an online mind map editor.

In the center of the workspace, describe the image of the problem, task, or area of ​​knowledge. In our case, this is an article about mental maps.

Remember to use pictures and symbols where possible. This will make the map brighter and more colorful, and as a result, more memorable.

From the central image we lay thick structural branches, the main subsections of our article. It is recommended to use different colors for key branches and words, as well as colorfully design them. Since I love minimalism, I'm going to deviate a little from the rules.

But nothing prevents me from arranging the main subsections with the corresponding pictures. We will also add branches of the next level. It must be remembered that there should be only one word per branch. This allows us not to overload the map, and in the process of inventing this one word, we can highlight the essence of the material.

The size and thickness of the letters on the branches vary depending on the distance from the central image. The further - the less. If there is a relationship between the details on the map, do not forget to show it. Let's complete our example with other branches and links.

Here is the finished mental map. Not the most colorful because of my love of minimalism, but very informative.

Sometimes you have to keep so much information in memory at the same time that it is very difficult to remember it and even more so to use it. However, there is a way to make your life easier. Just learn how to make mental maps.

What's this?

What are mind maps? In fact, they are a special technique for visualizing thinking. In other words, this is a kind of schematic image that contains the main thoughts and keywords.

Unlike ordinary linear text, when creating a mental map, the so-called radial notation is used, in which the main idea is located in the center, and branches with key thoughts expressed in words depart from it.

This way of presenting information is most suitable for effective perception, since all the most important things are visible at once, and the brain immediately fixes it. And visual images, that is, pictures, reinforce the information.

How to use?

Examples of using mind maps:

  • When studying large amounts of information. A mental map will allow you to structure all the data and present them concisely and concisely, which will greatly facilitate perception and use.
  • When learning. Maps help not only to better assimilate the material (for example, to make lecture plans and notes), but also to pass exams and even write test papers. You will remember the information faster and, importantly, you will be able to reproduce and use it correctly.
  • At work. For example, in the form of a mental map, you can prepare a presentation. It will be understandable for everyone and will allow you to quickly answer all questions that arise.
  • Collective problem solving. A mental map is very useful in brainstorming, in which ideas arise at lightning speed, and they need to be captured succinctly and briefly in order to then study all the received data.
  • Making a decision. The map allows you to get a clear idea of ​​the problem, consider it in detail and find solutions, and then choose the most rational one.
  • Planning. This technique can be used when planning the budget and highlighting its main articles, when drawing up plans for a certain period of time, with the effective use of time.
  • In business. With the help of mind visualization techniques, you can develop new business ideas, come up with advertising, identify and solve problems, think over a business strategy, and so on.

How to do?

How to make a mental map? Everything is very simple:

  1. Take a piece of paper and in the center write a word that describes the given topic. Enclose it in a circle or oval.
  2. Lead branches from the central topic and place on them keywords related to the main idea.
  3. Expand the map. Lead new branches from ready-made branches, write words on them that describe the previous ones.

Important Rules

In order for the creation of a mental map to allow you to use it to the maximum, follow the rules:

  1. Only the main word is placed in a closed loop, the rest are placed on the branches.
  2. Only one word should be written on one branch. This may seem complicated, because sometimes a thought is a phrase. But learn how to turn a phrase into one capacious, catchy and catchy word, this will make it easier to memorize and apply information.
  3. Place a sheet of paper horizontally, this will greatly speed up perception.
  4. Place the main word in the center and lead branches from it in different directions, and not in one.
  5. It is best to write keywords in clear, large block letters so it will be easier to remember them.
  6. The length of one branch must be equal to the length of the word located on it. This will avoid confusion.
  7. You can and even need to use different colors, this will allow you to separate thoughts. But it's best to make the branches colorful, not the words. The letters should be black, so they will immediately catch the eye and be easily perceived.
  8. Letters may have different sizes and thickness (these will depend on the importance of the keyword).
  9. For the best perception, you can use symbols, drawings, but not too complex, preferably schematic.
  10. If the branches are numerous, then you can separate them from each other with dotted outlines so that the keywords do not mix.
  11. The map should be full, but not too crowded.
  12. Try to distribute the branches evenly so that there are no empty spaces and congested areas.
  13. Arrange all words hierarchically: first the most important, then the secondary ones.
  • Try to enjoy creating a map, then working with it will be pleasant and more efficient.
  • Let the card be bright and creative, this is also useful for memorization.
  • When compiling, try to use all the information available, group it and structure it, and highlight all the most important.
  • You can use the program to create. This will save time, but still, a hand-made map will allow you to better remember the information.
  • If the map turned out to be too large and complex, then redraw it, removing secondary data or generalizing them.
  • If the amount of information is large, then first sketch out a draft to identify the most important thoughts.
  • The size of the sheet should correspond to the amount of information being studied.

Is it so?

What's this?

A memory map is an easy-to-understand scheme for presenting information.

For example, I made a mental map of a spring car repair:

Examples of mind maps




Why is that?

Tony Busan says this is how our brains think. Such bunches (he calls it a radial scheme) and associations. This means that such a format for presenting information is the most understandable for our brain.

In order to truly “permeate” any information, our brain needs it:

  • See
  • Hear
  • Smell
  • Touch
  • lick
  • draw
  • pronounce
  • AND SO ON

In other words, the more senses, skills, and connections we use when thinking, the better ideas our brain will produce.

Basic rules for mapping

  • come up with central image and position it in the center future card. For example, thinking about vacation ideas? Plunge the hat pattern into the center and label it with the word "REST!!!"
  • Use short words instead of long sentences. If you are considering options to go to the sea, then the key word will be “SEA”, and not “TRIP TO THE SEA”.
  • Only PRINTED LETTERS on the map!
  • Draw! The more colorful your card, the better it will serve you.

Why is a Mind Map better than a Synopsis?

From childhood we were taught to take notes ...

But mental maps put them on both shoulder blades!

Look, mind maps:

  • Clearer (due to drawings, arrows and colors)
  • Faster (you move your eyes around the map faster)
  • More structured (connections and hierarchy are visible)
  • More enjoyable (Believe me, drawing a map is much more fun than writing a boring abstract!)

Where to apply?

  • When reading
  • At the reports
  • For memorization
  • For education (for both students and teachers) - oh, I would like a mind map method at the university!
  • To choose from multiple options
  • To come up with out-of-the-box ideas

In fact, the uses of mind maps are limitless. Buzan writes in detail about all these points in his book, a link to which I will provide at the end of the article.

Mind mapping software

To date, the most convenient and advanced program is MindJet. It is fantastic to work with her, but she costs very, very well. However, when did this stop a Russian person?))

Mind map software

The most popular mind mapping software is MindJet (formerly Mind Manager). It costs a fortune - 349 euros.

Many stop their searches at this point and go to download the cracked MindJet. But in vain. There is a good alternative - the free XMind program. Here her official website.

And this is how the working window of the program looks like (click to enlarge):

Everything is in English, but in the settings you can also enable the Russian interface.

XMind also has paid versions. They cost 69 and 89 Euros (as of 10.10.16). Still much cheaper than MindJet, but what are we paying for?

Here is a table that explains a lot:

By the way, for non-profit organizations XMind gives 50% discount.

But I personally use the free version and it's enough for me. Often they send me a map in MindJet format, but XMind “digests” it perfectly.

Popular questions about XMind

Whose program is this? Where are the developers from?

If I understand correctly, from China. Moreover, the product is very old and proven - they have been on the market since 2007! And since 2008, the program has opened its code (Open Source).

Is there a Russian language?

Yes, the program has been translated into 14 languages. Including in Russian. Here:

In places, English words slip through, but this is not critical.

What are the system requirements?

Modest. The program requires the presence of Java on the computer. If you do not have it, then the installer will help you install it.

If the program still slows down, then in the menu you can do the following:

  • Edit - Preferences - Editing, and then turn off animation and shadow
  • Edit - Preferences - Spell Check - Disable Spell Check

Is there integration with cloud services like Dropbox?

No, there is no integration built into the functionality. Of course, you can always do it manually.

To do this, simply create a folder in Dropbox for your XMind projects. And then save all new projects there.

By the way, the program provides integration with Evernote. You can save all maps in text format or as a large picture.

Summary

Buzan himself sings like a nightingale, of course ... Buzan's mental maps are a miracle, a panacea for all ills and the path of mankind to a brighter future. Such “thick chocolate” smeared on the pages of a book is a bit repulsive. But such is the style of ABSOLUTELY all books on self-development from American authors.

For me personally, mental maps have become a good alternative, a kind of “upgrade” to the usual linear recording of projects, plans and notes.

Indeed, these bunches, these drawings are not just cool and fun, they also work better. I got better at planning bright ideas began to appear more frequently. Mind maps are more pleasant to read after a couple of weeks - everything remains clear.

In short, mind maps are another tool effective person! I'm planning this now.)

Drawing a mental map - VIDEO!

Update from 09/01/2016:

Years later, I can say that ... I practically DO NOT use mental maps. So they didn't stick with me.

I use it only when I need to sketch the architecture of some small project. Or if we conduct a quick brainstorming session on a magnetic board. In other cases, I use the usual notes, but not boring, but with drawings, arrows, highlights and drawings. IMHO such an outline is more convenient than a mental map.

That is, I took something from mental maps, and something from ordinary notes. It turned out to be a kind of hybrid)) This is if you write by hand. And if not, then mental maps become quite inconvenient. Well, it's probably individual. I know people who just love programs like MindJet or XMind.

What inconveniences I found with the mind map method:

  • It is necessary to think over the whole architecture in advance. If you just need to quickly outline something, then you can make a mistake with the structure and the map will come out ugly. On the one hand - it is empty, and on the other - it barely fits in small print.
  • If you take notes in Word or Evernote, you can easily copy the content even into a chat. But with a mental map based on MindJet, everything is not so simple ...

This is a great way to create a detailed to-do list for a project. Instead of writing a list of actions in a linear, step-by-step format, a two-dimensional (often colored) chart is used that represents thoughts, ideas, and plans in a non-linear manner. This is called the intellect of the map (mental maps, mind maps, mind map).

Here are examples of what it might look like.

Mind map examples



Both hemispheres of the brain are involved in mind mapping. The result is a powerful tool for planning, organizing and communicating during the preparation of a long-term project.

With a mind map, you can also objectively assess your skills, abilities and available resources. Anything you can do to organize a working strategy will bring you closer to completing the project on time.

Creating a mind map is not such a difficult task.

How to make a mind map

Here is a simple seven-point plan for making a mind map:

1. Time planning in mind map.

Set aside 30-45 minutes a day for each major project. It is not necessary to rigidly fix the time frame, because some projects require minimum quantity time, while others require consideration of many parameters. The rule of thumb is to set aside at least half an hour a day for each project.

2. Ask four key questions.

Creating a mind map starts with a deep understanding of each of your projects. Start with four questions:

What actions are needed to achieve the main goal?

What are my current benefits and resources?

What are the obstacles to success?

What additional skills do I need to develop to achieve the main

Think back to your past experience with similar projects. Analyze your successes and failures. Use this information when creating a mind map.

3. Create a mind map.

Take a piece of drawing paper (or use software, which will be discussed below). To get started, take whatman paper on plain paper, because there is enough space to write down everything you need to work through the project.

In general, when you have prepared all the tools, start compiling a mind map.

Here are a few ways to chart your ideas:

Use keywords, lines, colors and images to express your ideas. mental map A visual expression of related information that is easy to see and remember. Your brain works associatively, so the information displayed in a non-linear way will help determine the specific actions that need to be taken.

Develop your ideas naturally. Start by simply expressing your idea in one sentence. Position it in the center of the diagram and arrange supporting blocks around it that include mini-projects/ideas that need to be completed within the project.

Use relevant keywords/images for each block.

Key words write down lower case so it's easier to remember them.

The main block is connected to additional blocks with lines. Use different colors to highlight various topics and associations.

Use the arrows to develop each idea in detail. From each additional block, draw arrows that branch out.

Use the arrow to explain what needs to be done. You can add new ideas and activities as the project develops. This is a floating chart so you can add or remove items as you work on the project.

4. Problem identification.

An important part of the mind map is in identifying problems that hinder success.

There are three main types of problems:

1. Obstacle associated with the true outcome of the project.

The project must be compatible with your long term plans or a job that is really important to you. If they conflict, you are unlikely to succeed.

For example, if you're running a project to please someone, you won't have the intrinsic motivation to work on that project every day. My advice is to avoid projects that only look like what you have to do.

2. Fears.

Fear of failure, self-doubt, lack of trust, and other fears can hold you back from taking consistent action.

Select a certain area for fears on the mind map. Set aside time to think about the "holding factors". Then come up with some possible solutions. You will most likely find that it is not difficult to overcome fear - once you understand the reason for your feelings.

3. Checkpoints.

Sometimes external factors may interfere with the completion of the project. When this happens it is important to identify the actual problem. Just consider each such factor and think about how you will react if you encounter it.

5. Avoid censorship in your address.

Write down ideas as they come up—without trying to think or analyze them. Of course, some of them may seem unimportant, but they can lead you to follow-up thoughts that will have an amazing effect on the implementation of your project. Allow yourself to realize every idea.

Put each of them in blocks and sub-blocks, and then start working on the project from there.

6. Segment the intelligence of the map.

Our brains work most efficiently during five or seven minute bursts of brain activity. During these bursts, you can capture maximum ideas and write them down quickly with keywords, symbols, images, and colors. After that, take a break for a few minutes and return to the diagram again.

Repeat this enough times to make sure that you have worked through each of the possible ideas thoroughly enough.

7. Turn your mind map into action plans.

After brainstorming turn your ideas into action lists. You can learn more about this in the article " How to be successful and feel full of strength and energy". Just think about what tasks need to be completed in chronological order, then schedule them on your calendar to keep track of deadlines.

This is really all you need to create maps. This is a simple exercise that only takes 30 minutes. Do this for all five goals, generate an avalanche of ideas with this multi-dimensional process.

Resources for creating maps. Mental maps of the program.

Here are a few tools you can use for this process:

1.iMindMap- English-language software developed by Tony Buzan, who is considered by many to be the inventor of the mind map technique. This program has a slightly different approach to creating a mind map than other programs.

iMindMap is a paid product, but you can use its seven-day demo.

2. Free Mind is an English-language java script program with extensive Wiki support that explains how to use the application, create your own keyboard shortcuts, and maximize your mind map experience.

4. Mindjet MindManager- this program allows you to transform your ideas, strategic plans and business information into special cards that will allow disparate groups and organizations to work more quickly, efficiently and harmoniously. MindManager integrates with popular Microsoft applications Office (including Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Project, and Microsoft Outlook).

It doesn't matter what device you use to create the mind map. There are many tools to develop your ideas and map out the steps to bring them to fruition.

You have two options to choose from when working on a list of tasks within a project:

1. Make a linear, step-by-step list of tasks or

2. Use a non-linear, creative mind map format to work out ways to implement the project.

Regardless of which one you choose, you will eventually have to act.

In conclusion of the topic "Intelligence maps (mental maps, mind maps, mind map)" I propose to look educational video dedicated to the successful solution of problems and non-standard tasks with the help of a mind map.

Implement the intelligence of the map in your activities and you will see how your efficiency and productivity will increase!