Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Mind Mapping

Why should I use colour in a Mind Map?

It's recommended that you use colour if you want to remember the information in your Mind Map.  If your aim is to get your thoughts down quickly and remembering the information is not a priority, feel free to stick to one colour. 

I can't draw.  Does that mean Mind Mapping is not for me?

As long as the images you draw make sense to you, that's what counts.  When you start Mind Mapping, you may find it difficult to think of images to replace words.  That's normal - after all, you've spent most of your life writing notes using words.  But with a little bit of practice and persistence, you will find that your brain quickly generates ideas for images or symbols.

What's the purpose of turning the page sideways or landscape?

It gives you more room to Mind Map.

Where do I start on the page?

It's suggested that you start your first BOI at about 1 pm and work clockwise around the page.  This is also how most Mind Mapping software operate.

Why should I use one word per line?

Think of the last paragraph you just read.  Whilst you may not be able to remember every single word, you can probably still remember the essence of what was conveyed.  By using key words, you are eliminating about 90% of text that is generally irrelevant in helping you recall important information.

Another reason for  keeping to one word per line is that you open the word up to many more possibilities when generating thoughts and ideas.

How many branches should there be in one page?

Generally speaking, 5-7 branches work well. This will vary according your Mind Map and how much information the supporting branches contain or spread out to. 

Why must the branches be connected to each other?

This shows your brain/eye that the information is connected and linked.

Why should I capture all my thoughts even when the they seems irrelevant?

What may initially seem irrelevant often generates the best ideas or insight once developed further.

What if I run out of room?

If you run out of room, just create a new Mind Map with that particular word/branch you want to expand on as the new central image.

What if I make a mistake?

Just scratch it out or add a new branch.   Whilst many Mind Maps can be pretty to look at, they are meant to be functional tools, not pieces of art.