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.
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