how to use mind map for problem solving

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What does a problem-solving mind map look like?

So what does a problem-solving mind map refer to? Well, when we think of mind mapping, we think of generating ideas or brainstorming. When you brainstorm ideas, it’s not about possible solutions; it’s about all the possibilities. The focus of a mind map is more on where to explore and find strategies. Yet with a stable framework, it can help to find solutions for complex problems.

This is yet another one of many mind map examples out there and one of the most efficient problem-solving strategies you can use. Mind maps are already powerful idea-generating tools to consider. They help with the complexities and chaos to get to the most efficient path.

It can be a particular problem or several problems where you’re trying to process the big picture. It helps to organize solutions that are hiding in the brain, whether those problems come from life or business. The structure of a problem-solving mind map slightly shifts, but the technique of mind mapping stays the same. Of course, it helps to understand how to see the big picture of how to solve a problem first.

Is mind mapping an efficient tool for problem-solving?

Short and long answer, a mind map is excellent for problem-solving. This is because it’ll have all the elements that are different in one place. The central idea instead is the actual problem, and the connections branch out. We now brainstorm ideas that are really there to point out the possible solutions.

If the problem is too complex, creating multiple simpler mind maps will help the brain to process possible solutions easier. A recent study shows how the brain can handle the essentials first against complex problems. This puts less stress on the brain and gives a better chance to solve the problem.

A mind map helps with the rest of the components of the study as well. You’re able to divide up the ideas and content, such as images or even a reference article. The benefit of creating a mind map is that central concept and base for all the detailed information. It all depends on how you use mind maps , to begin with.

How is a problem-solving mind map structured?

It’s a good idea to have the key skills required to make a normal mind map. Even before we get there, take a moment to do an exercise on paper. Write the problem down and try to connect or implement solutions throughout. You’ll quickly see the need to organize, and here you can stop and head back to your mind map software. It’s more just to see that structure is essential, as well as data and information collection.

Key skills include knowing typical structures, what main branches are, and mapping out the flows. Getting these key skills mean using a graphic organizer on a constant basis. Whether you make business mind maps , creativity mind maps, or education mind maps , make sure to have the right level of experience. You want this before attempting mind mapping to find solutions to a simple or complex problem.

Once you get the key skills required, the structure of the problem-solving mind map starts out the same.

Here we begin with a hierarchical approach, where the main branches are the problems to address. The sub-branches are either ideas or solutions to the problems. It benefits from the creativity and brainstorming that comes with mapping a mind map.

You can also go with a radiant thinking approach, where you start with the problem in the center. As the central idea, the ideas and solutions will radiant from the center. It’s ok to put imaginative solutions as well as more practical ones as a mind-mapping technique.

Consider colors and symbols

It may be a good idea to color code the sub-branches and write down what each color means. Writing notes is a standard aspect of mind maps focused on solving a problem. Don’t be shy to use images in your mind maps. These images can be of an individual problem, such as a roadblock that represents an obstacle. You can use positive symbols for your mind mapping to show ideas or a solution.

Doing mind maps this way actually ends up making them much more fun to use. That means you’ll be more prone to map out everything that you need to solve.

Mind map templates for problem-solving

You can start creating your mind map from scratch and get inspiration from existing mind map examples, or you can use a predefined template. Here are the most used templates you can copy and edit anytime:

1. Problem solving mind map template

This mind mapping template helps you solve a problem following the 5 step strategy: describe the problem, set goals, identify possible solutions, make an action plan, and add conclusions.

2. Manage a problem

This mind map helps you identify all the information on how the elements of problem management interact with each other. It’s more suitable for complex problems.

3. 6 Thinking Hats

The 6 thinking hats template allows looking at a problem from multiple perspectives. This way, you get significantly higher chances of solving it more effectively.

4. 5-Whys Root Cause analysis

This template will help you find the reasons behind the obvious reasons and go back to the root of your problem.

5. Means-end analysis

This is suitable for simple problems and has a similar backward process as the template above.

6. Fishbone diagram

The fishbone diagram is a fantastic example of a mind map for kids , and adults can also use it.

7. Problem description toolbox

Before starting to solve a problem, it is essential to describe and analyze it constructively and comprehensively. That is exactly what this template will guide you to do.

Mind mapping a problem is not a one-time solution

Problem-solving is typically an iterative approach, and that means your mind map will be a dynamic tool. That’s why it’s always best to use mind mapping software when possible so as to be able to keep track of everything. Whether you’re using it for problem-solving on your business plan or for making life choices, you want it fresh. Even if a particular problem has been resolved, adding on a new creative problem keeps the brain working to find a solution.

Don’t forget to take time to get fresh air once in a while to clear your head. Your daily life problems you’re trying to resolve will still be there. A clear mind will help bring in more ideas and eventually the desired result you were looking for. Problem-solving isn’t always meant to be easy. Mind maps can only be effective at problem-solving when you’re fresh as well.

Use the right mind-mapping tools

When you are creating a mind map for problem-solving, you want to start with an example of an excellent mind map. Mindomo helps you not only with the right starter example but with one ready to handle a problem.

It comes with tools to help organize your thoughts , focus on the moment’s problem, and show all the possibilities. You can place problems on one end and solutions on the other. Or you can map out the whole end-to-end route from problem to solution. Either way, it will help you solve problems.

 Get your problem-solving hat out and be amazed at how mind-mapping software removes the difficulties of getting started. Feel free to try out our flexible tool and simple solution today. You’ll find the answer to your complex problems in no time.

Keep it smart, simple, and creative! The Mindomo Team

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How to Use Mind Mapping for Problem Solving

Why create a mind map.

Mind mapping is among the business analysis techniques that provides a visual representation of ideas, thoughts, problems… anything. It’s a great brainstorming tool for generating new ideas and exploring a problem. There’s no real rules to using mind maps. You just enter your central idea, maybe it’s a requirement or a problem, and then start adding everything that comes to mind. Mind maps are excellent in interviews and workshops, or as a personal thinking tool.

In this post you will be given the steps to creating a mind map.

Impress both your team and your clients!

Looking to streamline your business analysis process and produce high-quality work more efficiently? Check out this collection of customisable business analysis templates! With a range of templates to choose from, you can be sure to find the perfect solution for your needs and take your analysis to the next level.

Step 1 – Identify the central idea and add it to your mind map

Maybe you’ve been told to develop requirements for a new system. The business has stated “We need a new bug management system because we are getting too many product bugs reported back to us by our customers.” At this point it would be easy to assume that we should indeed investigate a new system or, exploring the issue closer, there may be other factors that could be resolved first.

I use the free software called FreeMind  to create my mind maps. However, some requirements management tools, such as Sparx Enterprise Architect, also offer mind mapping functionality. You could also use Visio, Powerpoint or any tool that can draw circles and lines.

Step 2 – Identify the main areas that impact the problem

When you’ve added to the central concept to the mind map just start adding your ideas around it. To organise my thinking I use the  six categories for describing a problem: strategy, service, process, applications, information and infrastructure.  It helps to have some structure or starting point for generating ideas. The diagram below shows the “high level of product bugs” example with the six categories as a starting point for generating ideas.

Step 3 – Brainstorm things that impact each of the 6 categories

Around the central idea or, in this case, the central problem, I added six categories and then let loose on a few things that may be a contributing factor to the “high level of reported product bugs” problem. The ideas were written down as they were identified and in no particular order. Reordering and culling can come later.

The important thing is to continue generating ideas until all of the obvious ones are exhausted. This way the real thinking and creativity in exploring the problem can begin.

Mind maps are a powerful business analysis technique for brainstorming ideas and uncovering the root cause of problems.

As you can see in the example above, a lot of ideas were generated from a quick 20 minute session with a mind map. The new identified ideas could be used as central concepts for further analysis. For example, under the “process” category above, the issue identifying poor QA and release processes could be used as a central concept for further exploration. This is because maybe a new system is not required.

A review of current processes, some re-engineering, and re-configuration of the current system may shed better light on how well bugs are being managed and resolved before they are found by the customer. That way management can implement new strategies to reduce the level of report product bugs.

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Solve Problems Using Mind Maps

Last Updated: August 4, 2021

This article was co-authored by Jeff Siegel . Jeff Siegel is a Holistic Life Coach and the Founder of Jeff Siegel Wellness. With nearly 10 years of experience, he specializes in mind-body medicine, life coaching, health and wellness coaching, mindfulness, corporate training, and transformational public speaking. He received a Master of Education from Harvard Graduate School of Education, a Master of Buddhist Studies from The University of Hong Kong, and a BSc in Neuroscience & Biology from Emory University. He’s also a certified personal trainer, a certified Eating Psychology Coach, and a certified Koru Mindfulness Teacher. This article has been viewed 88,558 times.

If you want to solve a problem, it's a good idea to combine

• mind mapping and
• problem solving tools (like brainstorming, asking questions, drawing a diagram...).

This way, you can profit from the benefits of each approach. (If you are not yet familiar with mind mapping, have a look at the wikiHow article How to Make a Mind Map)

• Avoid a description of your problem that is too narrow.

• I = identify problems and opportunities
• D = define alternative goals
• E = explore possible strategies
• A = anticipate and act
• L = look and learn.

• Develop your ideas in subbranches.
• Use problem solving tools for each stage.
• You find a collection of problem solving tools in the "Tips" section below.

• See the video below for an example.

Expert Q&A

• For each of the IDEAL stages, you can assemble a number of useful tools.
• Understand the problem
• Devise a plan
• Carry out the plan
• Review/extend
• For more detailed information, see https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_P%C3%B3lya

Things You'll Need

• blank paper, size A4 or larger
• pens, preferably in different colours
• optional: text markers
• this is great for keeping your tool map up to date
• Freeplane (download at http://freeplane.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page ) or
• FreeMind (download at http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page ).

You Might Also Like

• Bransford, J.D.; Stein, B.S.: The IDEAL Problem Solver. W.H. Freeman and Company, New York 1993 (Source for the IDEAL strategy)

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Making Mind Map for Problem-Solving Using the Most Appropriate Mind Mapping Tool

Are you worried about resolving problems? Do you want to make it a more creative way? Don't be concerned; a mind map is one of the most effective problem-solving tools. Mind mapping can help you find solutions to any issue quickly. However, problem-solving mind maps allow you to think logically and creatively wherein you can expand your critical thinking. This article will discover how mind mapping can help you lighten your load and calm down in stressful situations.

Part 1. What is Mind Mapping in Problem-Solving?

Part 2. the five benefits of using a mind map to solve problems, part 3. how mind map are used for problem-solving.

• Part 4. FAQs About Mind Map for Problem Solving

Problem-solving is where you can define a problem and figure out the cause. Making a mind mapping for problem-solving requires serious brainstorming for generating ideas and finding a solution to a problem. Moreover, working with problem-solving requires a better understanding and critical thinking, it is essential to understand the process wherein it is part of a systematic problem.

Furthermore, problem-solving refers to a person's ability to successfully manage and solve complex and unexpected problems. You can solve a problem when the time is right to find a better solution. One of the best options is to use a mind mapping tool; it is useful for problem-solving cases, great brainstorming, and as a note-taking method. It will undoubtedly assist you in enlightening your needs and reducing your stress.

1. Using a mind map to solve problems can also help you in your daily life by enlightening your information needs.

2. It can also help you in improving your ability and attempting to reach situations more professionally.

3. Using mind mapping software can help you manage your time. You can manage your time wisely and focus on what's important.

4. Using a mind map for problem-solving helps you understand relationships, and you can also identify opportunities in problems.

Mind maps are a one-of-a-kind way to stay organized while also sharing detailed information. Mind maps are an excellent way to be creative while also connecting your findings, whether you need to demonstrate a solution to a problem or present your research. Furthermore, mind maps can assist you if you have difficulty solving problems, and MindOnMap is the best option to meet your needs.

MindOnMap is the most convenient and one of the best problem-solving mind mapping software options for problem-solving. It can give you a brighter idea of how effective your instruction is throughout the process, whether you're developing a creative idea or sharing your thoughts. MindOnMap is also a versatile and expansive structure that can help you think. It can assist you in creating a structured design. Choose an appealing template design and then incorporate your thoughts and ideas into your composition.

Secure Download

Assess MindOnMap's resources and get started right away on your ideas. Here are the basics of making a problem-solving map using the best mind mapping software.

Visit the Official Page

To begin, visit MindOnMap 's official website and browse the program. Then, using your email address, create an account by clicking the Create Your Mind Map tab.

Select your Template

You can select the desired for your problem-solving map after you've created an account. Creating a problem-solving mind map in the recommended theme, on the other hand, is much easier.

Start Creating a Map

Begin creating your map. To make your templates more precise and flexible, click to add nodes and free nodes as needed.

Be Exceedingly Creative

To make your mind maps more appealing, you must be extremely creative. Just click the suggested themes, styles, and icons, then choose the options you want to use. Surely, you will enjoy making your map.

Save and Export your Work

At last, you can now export the mind map to images, office documents, PDF, and other formats and share it with others.

Further Reading

• How to Make a Mind Map for a Project Management Using The Most Convenient Mind Mapping Software
• Brainstorming Ideas Using the Best Collaborative Mind Mapping Tool

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January 28, 2020

How to use mind maps for problem solving.

by Louise Cunnah posted in Quick Tips .

Problem solving is an essential skill that can help us succeed, and it is one that we use each and every day – often without realizing it. Whether you’re at school, work or home, problems and obstacles occur all the time, at any moment – so it is important that you can provide quick and imaginative solutions to them.

Being able to solve problems is also one of the major attributes looked for by universities and employers as it displays both logical and creative thinking. It also shows drive and endurance as more complicated problems may require you to try a number of different solutions until you find one that fits.

Fortunately, problem solving is a skill that can be learned, and there are a number of tools and techniques that can aid you in this process. In this article, discover how mind maps can help you with problem solving, whether in the office, at home or in the classroom.

Why use mind maps for problem solving?

Using mind maps can help to bypass the usual panic instinct of the brain when confronted with a problem to solve. When faced with a problem, we automatically panic, experiencing a whole host of unpleasant symptoms – physical and non-physical. When we enter panic mode, we can experience feelings of intense fear, a racing heart, breathlessness and trembling. This isn’t ideal for getting into a problem-solving frame of mind!

Instead of ‘forcing’ your mind to come up with a solution that can result in stress, mind mapping opens up possibilities and allows you to remain calm. When using mind maps for problem solving, you instantly gain more clarity so you can find the answers you need more easily. This enables you to view the problem as a positive challenge and an opportunity to show off your creative skills.

One reason that mind maps are so effective is that they contain all the elements of your problem in one visual ‘take’ – thus enabling you to see them at a glance. Here’s why their format makes them such a useful problem-solving tool:

• Mind maps prioritize the most important aspects of the problem at hand, which focuses your mind. This is due to the fact that the branches of a map should contain single keywords or short phrases, rather than countless lines of text.
• The use of colors and images stimulate your brain, meaning that you are engaged and ready to solve the problem.
• Mind maps start with a central concept or idea, with additional ideas radiating outwards as branches. By using radial thinking in this way, your brain is able to use word association, helping you to generate many creative solutions.

How to solve problems with mind maps

Unsure of how to start using mind maps as a problem-solving tool? We recommend making two separate mind maps; one for the problem itself, and one for the possible solutions.

Begin by mapping out the problem:

• Make the problem the central idea of your first mind map.
• Add all the aspects and causes of the problem as main branches, then investigate these in further detail with sub-branches.

By exploring the problem in this way, you should begin to realize why the problem occurred and what you can do to improve the situation.

Now create your second map for possible solutions:

• Make ‘Solutions’ your central idea.
• Add all of the routes through which you could solve the problem as main branches in the map. Include any colleagues, organizations, techniques or resources that could help and make sub-branches to explore the details of these further.

Create a final branch with the most suitable solution or combination of solutions for this particular problem, then add sub-branches of the details and how you plan to implement this.

By using mind maps for problem solving, you will realize that one obstacle could potentially have many solutions. You should also be able to determine which option is most cost-effective, practical or time-saving.

What are the benefits of mind maps for problem solving?

Mind mapping is such a beneficial tool for problem solving because it can help you structure your thoughts, and gives you complete control over your problem, which will enable you to think more creatively and logically in a stable framework. This ‘big picture’ way of looking at your problem will open up limitless possibilities and engage your brain, stopping the panic instinct!

Other great ways to keep calm when problem solving are:

• Taking a walk – The Romans believed in a principle called ‘solve it as you walk’. This requires you to remove yourself physically from the problem, take in some fresh air, and become creatively inspired.
• Steady breathing – Research proves that controlling your breathing can reduce your heart rate and improve the flow of oxygen around your body.
• Daydreaming – Take your mind off the problem briefly and engage your mind in a focused daydream (i.e. directly thinking about the problem at hand). This will instantly make you feel calmer, more positive and creative.

Using Ayoa mind maps to solve problems

Traditionally, mind maps are drawn by hand. However, by using mind mapping software (such as Ayoa ), you can collate all the information you have about the problem in one place, including any resources that could help you form a solution. For example, you can attach files to your map’s central idea or branches so you can refer back to them whenever you need – such as a budget spreadsheet, video or Word document.

With a range of information at your fingertips, you’ll feel ready to tackle your problem, and more in control than ever before. Ayoa also enables you to quickly edit the information in your maps and easily share them with others – making them great for collaborative working .

In this article, you will have discovered how mind mapping can calm you down, focus your mind and generate limitless solutions when you’re faced with a problem. Next time you need a solution, don’t get stressed – get mind mapping! Find out more about mind mapping with Ayoa or try it for free today .

Louise Cunnah

Louise Cunnah has always had a passion for the written word, leading to her studying English, Media and Journalism at Cardiff Metropolitan University. Since graduating in 2014, she has held a number of different roles in marketing, both agency-side and in-house for brands like Ayoa. She loves taking on a challenge and has written content on a diverse range of subjects over the years, including horticulture, business management, telecommunications, health and safety, productivity, neurodiversity, and personal finance (to name but a few!).

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Mastering Mind Maps: Unleash Your Problem-Solving Potential

• Introduction

Mind maps are powerful visual tools that can be used to solve complex problems effectively. By organizing and connecting various ideas, mind mapping tools enable users to represent information in a non-linear format, enhancing creativity and boosting productivity . In this article, we will explore why, who, when, where, and how to use a mind map tool for problem solving, providing detailed examples along the way.

Why Use a Mindmap Tool for Problem Solving?

Who can benefit from using a mindmap tool for problem solving, when should you use a mindmap tool for problem solving, where can you use a mindmap tool for problem solving, how to use a mindmap tool for problem solving.

Mind maps offer several advantages when it comes to problem solving. They encourage brainstorming , foster collaboration, enhance memory retention, and provide a holistic view of the problem. Below are some reasons why using a mind map tool can be beneficial in problem solving:

• Brainstorming: Mind maps allow for the generation of ideas in a non-linear manner, helping to stimulate creative thinking. By visually connecting related concepts, new connections and insights can emerge.

Example: Let’s say you’re struggling to come up with ideas for a marketing campaign. By using a mind map tool, you can start with the central theme “Marketing Campaign” and branch out to different aspects like target audience, messaging, channels, and goals. This visual representation can aid in generating innovative ideas and finding potential solutions.

• Collaboration: Mind map tools enable teams to collaborate in real-time, regardless of geographical boundaries. This facilitates effective problem solving by allowing team members to contribute their thoughts and perspectives simultaneously.

Example: Imagine a team of designers working on a website redesign project. By using a mind map tool, each designer can add their ideas and suggestions to the mind map, creating a collective visualization of the problem and potential solutions. This collaborative approach fosters effective problem solving by leveraging the diverse expertise of the team.

• Memory Retention: Mind maps are great at organizing information in a way that aligns with how our brains naturally work. The visual representations, color coding, and hierarchal structure aid in memory retention and recall.

Example: Suppose you’re preparing for a history exam and need to remember key events during a particular period. By creating a mind map, you can visually represent the timeline of events, connecting related themes and highlighting crucial details. This visualization will facilitate better understanding and memorization of the information.

• Holistic View of the Problem: Mind maps allow users to see the big picture while also focusing on the details. By creating branches and sub-branches, you can explore different facets of the problem and identify potential connections and patterns.

Example: Let’s say you’re trying to identify the root cause of a recurring issue in a production process. By using a mind map, you can start by outlining the problem at the center and then branch out to possible causes, their effects, and any mitigating factors. This approach will help you analyze the problem from multiple angles and devise effective solutions.

The versatility of mind maps makes them useful for individuals and teams across various domains. Here are some examples:

• Students: Mind maps can aid students in organizing and understanding complex concepts, making it easier to study and solve problems related to different subjects.

Example: A biology student can create a mind map to visualize different systems of the human body, such as the circulatory system, respiratory system, and nervous system. This approach will facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the subject and help in problem-solving during exams or practical scenarios.

• Business Professionals: Mind maps can assist professionals in brainstorming ideas, project planning, strategic decision making, and problem-solving in various business situations.

Example: A marketing manager can use a mind map to develop a content marketing strategy. Branches can represent different content formats, target audience segments, distribution channels, and metrics for evaluation. This visual representation will aid in identifying gaps, refining the strategy, and solving potential roadblocks.

• Creatives: Mind maps are particularly beneficial for artists, writers, and other creative professionals. They help in organizing ideas, capturing inspiration, and overcoming creative blocks.

Example: A writer working on a novel can use a mind map to outline different plot lines, character arcs, and themes. By visually connecting these elements, the writer can easily identify plot gaps or structural inconsistencies and solve them effectively.

While mind maps can be valuable in a wide range of problem-solving scenarios, below are some instances where using a mind map tool can be particularly advantageous:

• Complex Projects: When dealing with complex projects that involve numerous interconnected elements, a mind map can provide a comprehensive overview and help identify potential roadblocks or opportunities.

Example: Suppose you’re managing the construction of a multi-story building. By creating a mind map, you can visually represent different aspects such as architecture, engineering, budgeting, and timelines. This will aid in identifying potential problems, formulating mitigation strategies, and ensuring a smooth project execution.

• Brainstorming Sessions: Mind maps are an excellent tool for brainstorming sessions, as they enable free-flowing idea generation and help connect different concepts and perspectives.

Example: Imagine a team brainstorming session for a new product launch. By using a mind map, participants can contribute ideas related to product features, target markets, pricing, marketing strategies, and more. Visualizing these ideas in a mind map will facilitate the identification of innovative solutions and enable effective problem solving.

• Learning and Research: When studying or conducting research, mind maps can aid in organizing and connecting information, facilitating problem-solving and knowledge retention.

Example: A student researching a historical event can use a mind map to organize different aspects such as causes, effects, key players, and timelines. This organization of information will allow for a comprehensive understanding of the event and support problem-solving when analyzing its impact or significance.

Thanks to the availability of mind map tools across different platforms, they can be used in various settings, including:

• Online Collaboration: Mind map tools that support real-time collaboration are ideal for remote teams working on problem-solving tasks.

Example: A team of designers spread across different locations can utilize an online mind map tool to collaborate on designing user interfaces for a mobile application. Each designer can contribute their ideas and visually connect different design elements, facilitating effective problem solving without physical proximity.

• Classrooms and Educational Institutions: Mind maps are suitable for educational environments where teachers and students can benefit from visualizing and solving problems together.

Example: In a classroom setting, a teacher can use a mind map tool to explain complex scientific concepts by visually connecting different parts of the concept, emphasizing cause-and-effect relationships, and facilitating problem-solving discussions among students.

• Personal Productivity: Mind map tools can be installed on personal devices, allowing individuals to utilize them for problem solving and personal development.

Example: An entrepreneur can use a mind map tool on their smartphone to organize ideas, decisions, and challenges related to their business. This will aid in problem-solving, identifying opportunities, and staying organized.

To effectively utilize a mind map tool for problem solving, follow these steps:

• Identify the Problem: Clearly define the problem you need to solve. This will serve as the central theme of your mind map.
• Brainstorm: Begin brainstorming ideas related to the problem and add them as branches radiating from the central theme.
• Organize and Connect Ideas: Group similar ideas together and create branches and sub-branches accordingly. Use colors, icons, and different font sizes to visually distinguish different categories and their interconnections.
• Analyze and Evaluate: Analyze the ideas presented in the mind map, evaluate their feasibility, and identify potential solutions or paths to explore further.
• Iterate and Refine: Refine and iterate on the mind map as new ideas emerge or the problem evolves. Adjust branches, add or remove elements, and adapt the structure as necessary.
• Take Action: Convert the identified solutions into actionable steps and create an implementation plan based on the insights gathered from the mind map.
• Collaborate and Share: If working in a team, collaborate using the mind map tool by inviting team members to contribute their ideas, perspectives, and solutions. Share the mind map with relevant stakeholders to gather feedback and ensure alignment.
• Review and Update: Regularly review and update the mind map as progress is made or new insights arise. This will help track the problem-solving journey and ensure that the mind map remains a relevant and up-to-date resource.

Mind maps are invaluable tools for problem solving, enabling individuals and teams to visually organize ideas, stimulate creativity, and identify effective solutions. Whether used by students, professionals, or creatives, mind map tools offer a versatile and efficient way to tackle complex problems in various domains. By leveraging the power of mind maps, you can unlock your problem-solving potential and enhance overall productivity. So, next time you encounter a challenge, consider using a mind map tool and watch as your problem-solving abilities soar.

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Mind map analysis: A practical problem solving process

By Chuck Frey

No matter what your line of work, chances are you must deal with ideas. Either you’re creating them as part of your work, or are having them submitted to you by your subordinates. In either case, having an effective process for evaluating ideas effectively and selecting the best ones for implementation is becoming critically important.

In this new Effective Mind Maps report, I analyze a mind map that brings a simple, common-sense process to creative problem solving – from clearly defining your problem or challenge, to listing potential solutions, evaluating them and identifying the best one for implementation.

In this report, I go deeper than ever, not only analyzing what the author of this mind map has created and what can be improved about it, I show you what these recommended changes would look like. So I’m not only telling you, I’m showing you what to do. This makes it easier for you to adapt these ideas to your needs.

This report is only available to members of the Mind Mapping Insider membership program . It contains a wealth of resources that can help you to be more productive, creative and have a greater impact in your job. It’s not enough to have a mind mapping tool – you need the insights to use it in ways that deliver value and enhance your reputation. That’s what this program is all about! Click here for more details .

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How to use mind maps: skills to boost your brainstorming

Georgina Guthrie

June 04, 2021

Linear thinking is great when you need to get from A to B in the most straightforward way. But this kind of thinking isn’t the right answer for every situation. When you need lots of creative ideas or more leftfield solutions to a problem, lateral thinking is the way to go.

Lateral thinking can be tricky, even if you think of yourself as a creative person. Luckily, there are a few methods designed to help you break out of linear trains of thought — and mind mapping is a great one.

Mind maps are a quick and easy way to organize thoughts, absorb information, and solve complex problems. They’re also great for visual learners. Ready to get started on your own? Let’s dive in!

What is a mind map?

A mind map (aka spider diagram) is a visual way to present ideas. It helps with structuring and organizing information. It can also help you analyze, recall, and generate ideas. Best of all? It’s really simple.

It involves writing down a central theme (which sits in the middle of your diagram), then adding new, related subtopics and ideas, which span out from the center. Those subtopics then have their own ideas branching out — just like in the example below.

Template available in Cacoo

The key features of a mind map

Colors and shapes may vary, but there are three things all mind maps have in common.

• There’s a central idea in the middle
• Each branch comprises a keyword
• The branches all connect to the central theme (either directly or indirectly)

Benefits of mind mapping

Mind maps are popular — and for good reason. They’re simple and versatile. They can help spark ideas (even among those who identify as chronically not creative) and aid comprehension among visual learners. Here are some of the advantages.

• Easy to create
• Easy to understand (no training required)
• Aid comprehension and recall
• Spark creativity
• Help you organize complex data
• Help with problem-solving

How to draw a mind map: 3 easy steps

Creating a mind map is easy. You can do it in…

• Write an idea in the middle of your page (or screen). Landscape format is best.
• Write some related subtopics around the central theme, one at a time. Link them back to the central idea with a line.
• Repeat this process for each of the subtopics, connecting each to their parent topic.

And that’s it! Easy, right?

Here are some more tips to help you get the most out of your diagram.

• Use colors, shapes, and symbols . Mind mapping is all about being creative and visual, so… be creative and visual. Organize your thoughts with colors and shapes, vary the font size and line thickness, add an image or ten — there really are no limits.

You don’t need to be an artist — just do what you can to make it visual. Visual clues will help you emphasize important bits and engage your brain.

Image Source

• Keep things short and sweet. Mind maps are all about getting ideas out and onto the page — add too much detail and you’ll get bogged down in the minutiae. Keep labels to a single word or two. You’ll be tempted to write more — but resist! Look for ways to distil that sentence down into a word, figure, or drawing. Your brain will thank you for it later! (As will any colleagues who have to read your diagram later.)

How to use mind maps

Mind mapping can be applied to all sorts of tasks. Here are three ways to use one.

1. Note-taking

Whether you’re in a meeting or in class, mind mapping is a great tool for visual thinkers. The finished product is especially useful for recollection or revision because you’ll have grouped ideas while taking them down.

2. Brainstorming and creative thinking

Need to come up with lots of ideas? Mind mapping is a great way to spark thoughts and organize them coherently. Try mind-mapping in your next brainstorming session to encourage creative thinking and inspire team members.

3. Problem-solving, organizing, and consolidating information

Mind maps can be helpful when sorting through complex information from different sources. Grouping things together can help the viewer spot patterns and links, while simplifying the amount of information the viewer has to process.

4. Studying and memorization

Mind maps are visual, and images can help with memorization. Ruth Colvin Clark and Richard E. Mayer wrote in their book e-Learning and the Science of Instruction that adding images to text-based instructions improved students’ performance on a test by an average of 89%. Meanwhile, students who had scored less than 40% after reading a text comprised of words alone improved to around 65% when words were combined with images.

“Unless our words, concepts, ideas are hooked onto an image, they will go in one ear, sail through the brain, and go out the other ear. Words are processed by our short-term memory where we can only retain about seven bits of information (plus or minus 2) […]. Images, on the other hand, go directly into long-term memory where they are indelibly etched,” says Dr. Lynell Burmark , an education consultant who writes and speaks about visual literacy.

Color can play a strong role in memory too. One study found that there was a big improvement in memory recognition when participants were presented with color images vs. monochrome images.

Final thoughts

The beauty of mind maps lies in their simplicity. They can be used in almost any situation where organization, clarification, and idea generation is needed — whether that’s coming up with ideas for a company name, taking lecture notes, or brainstorming blog post ideas.

If you’re using your mind map in a business or professional context, then you’ll need to put some thought into the format. Pen and paper are fine, but you can’t edit it easily, it’s hard to share, and not everyone will be able to make sense of your handwriting.

This is where mind mapping software comes in handy. Rather than scribbling things down then taking a pic on your phone and sending it out to everyone, you can grab a premade mind map template , populate it (adding colors, images, and shapes at the click of a button), then share it with everyone when you’re done.

With Cacoo , our own tool, you can invite others to join in, add comments and ideas, reorganize, and share it with anyone else who needs to see it. And when the project has finished, you can archive it then refer to it the next time you’re in need of a little inspiration — meaning no good idea goes to waste.

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Mindmapping

Explore different facets of a problem, and organize your ideas for possible solutions.

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Running the play

You can do mindmaping on your own, in pairs, or as a group.

Start with a question that is central to your topic or problem.

Make sure the question is somewhat specific – e.g., "How can we make creating Jira issues simpler?" is better than "How can we improve Jira issues?" Careful not to choose a question that boxes your brain into a corner – e.g., "How can we introduce 1-click create for JIRA issues?"

Turn your brain on (5 min)

Write your question in the middle of the whiteboard.

Now write down any thoughts that spring to mind in relation to this question (even if the thought isn't an answer, per se). Each thought should be a separate bubble hovering around the question in the middle.

Resist the urge to self-edit or over-think it at this stage. Just let it flow.

If you're working alone, good ol' paper and pencil work just as well as a whiteboard.

Branch out (10 min)

Once you've got an initial set of ideas, use each one to create a branch of more ideas. Make sure to connect them using circles, lines, arrows, etc. so it's easy to see how they map to each other.

For example...

Here's a mind map your friendly neighborhood Team Playbook team did recently. 

Grab the gold coins (5 min)

Go back over your mind map and highlight the ideas that resonate strongest with you. Is there anything missing? Or are there ideas worth exploring further?

With any luck, you'll have hit upon one or two ideas that get you un-stuck and solve your problem. If so, great. Move onto planning your next steps. If not, snap a photo of your mind map and share it with your team as a way of bringing them into the conversation.

Be sure to run a full Health Monitor session or checkpoint with your team to see if you're improving.

You can use the same bubbles-and-lines technique to record a group discussion or to capture the  peer feedback from a Sparring  session.

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Mind Maps: What They Are, How to Draw Them, How to Use Them Successfully

Table of Contents

Do you have trouble organizing your thoughts, coming up with fresh ideas, or remembering complex information? If yes, you’ll find mind maps quite beneficial for your work.

Mind maps can help you learn and remember more effectively by tapping into your brain’s visual processing abilities.

Whether you are a business executive, an adult learner, or just someone who wants to improve your thinking skills, this post will show you what are mind maps, how to draw them, and how they can boost your learning, creativity, and work performance.

What are mind maps?

A mind map is a visual tool for organizing ideas . It consists of a central idea and is linked to other ideas. A mind map can have many levels of hierarchy, depending on how deep you want to go into a topic, and has keywords, images, colors, symbols, and other elements to make it more expressive and memorable.

A mind map differs from other visual tools like diagrams, charts, and graphs in that it is not limited by a predefined structure or format. You can create a mind map in a way that suits your style and preference.

You can also use different types of mind maps for different purposes. Other forms of mind maps such as freeform mind maps are good for brainstorming, concept maps are effective for organizing thoughts and relationships, outlining mind maps for planning and writing, and AI-powered mind maps for providing insights and suggestions.

How to draw a mind map?

Drawing a mind map is easy and fun. You can use a software tool or pen and paper to create a mind map. Here are some steps and tips on how to draw a mind map using a software tool:

1. Select a software tool that meets your requirements. There are many mind-mapping software applications available. Some are free or low-cost, some offer more features and customization options, and some have more templates and integrations with other apps. You should compare their features and select the software that works best for you.

2. Start with a central idea representing the main topic you want to explore . You can type the central idea in a bubble or use an image or icon to represent it. You can also choose a color or font that matches the theme or mood of your topic. If you prefer to draw a mind map manually instead of using software, you can draw the image or icon representing the central idea.

3. Add sub-ideas or information that relate to your central idea. You can do this by clicking on the main central idea and dragging a line to create a new branch. This can be done by using keyboard shortcuts to add branches quickly. You can type keywords or phrases on the branches or use images or icons to illustrate them. Colors and fonts can also be used to differentiate between different types of information or categories.

4. Connect related ideas or information with lines or connectors . You can do this by clicking on one branch and dragging a line to another branch. You can use different types of lines or connectors to show different types of relationships, such as causal, logical, temporal, or hierarchical.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until you have covered all the relevant information for your topic . You can add as many levels of detail as you want, depending on how complex or comprehensive your mind map is. You can also rearrange, edit, delete, or move branches until you are satisfied with the structure and layout of your mind map.

6. Enhance your mind map with additional elements to make it more attractive and memorable . You can add notes, comments, links, attachments, emojis, stickers, audio clips, videos, etc., to enrich your mind map with more information or context. You can also use themes, styles, backgrounds, borders, etc., to customize the appearance of your mind map.

Here is an example of a mind map that is drawn manually using colored pens and paper:

In the above hand-drawn mind map, “How to Sell Shoes?” is the central idea. Some of the ideas relating to the central idea are “Market Location”, “Competitive Advantages”, and “Gender.” Sub-ideas relating to “Gender” are “Male”, “Female”, and “Children”.

How to use mind maps?

Mind maps have a wide range of applications. They can be used for:

Brainstorming

When you need to generate new ideas, use a freeform mind map to capture all your thoughts without worrying about order or logic. You can add or remove ideas, or simply shift ideas where you think they fit. For even more ideas, you can use an AI-powered mind map to get suggestions and insights from artificial intelligence based on your input.

Note-taking

Mind maps are great for taking/making notes from lectures, books, articles, podcasts, and videos. You can use it to organize the main points and details of what you learned in a logical and hierarchical manner. When drawn correctly, you will find mind maps more effective than typical (linear) notes at remembering and reviewing information.

Making summaries

You can use a mind map to summarise or highlight the main ideas and facts of a topic and show how they are connected and related. You can use it to compare and contrast different points of view or arguments on a topic. When you use mind maps, you will them more effective in helping you understand the main points of a topic than using text or bullet points.

Many people find mind maps more effective in planning their activities than using calendars and to-do lists. To help you in planning, you can use a mind map to break down your plan into manageable steps and sub-steps. By assigning priority, deadlines, and resources to these sub-steps, you can visualize your desired outcomes and potential risks or challenges.

Problem-solving

You can use mind maps for problem-solving, analyzing the root causes and effects of a problem, and identifying possible solutions. You can also use it to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each solution and select the best one depending on your criteria.

These are just some of the ways you can use mind maps for learning and creativity. There are many more applications, which is why author Tony Buzan , the person who started the mind mapping technique, calls it the Swiss Army knife of the brain.

What are some common mistakes when drawing a mind map?

Some common mistakes you should avoid when drawing mind maps are:

Using only words

Mind maps are more effective when they include words and images, as this takes advantage of the dual coding principle that helps the brain process and remembers information better. Images also make mind maps more engaging, expressive, and memorable. Use keywords, icons, symbols, or diagrams to illustrate your ideas, instead of writing long sentences or paragraphs.

Using too many words

Mind maps should be clear and concise, not cluttered and confusing. When you use too many words, you make your mind map hard to read and understand. This can also overload your working memory with irrelevant information. Try to use only the most important and relevant words for each idea, and avoid repeating or explaining the same information.

Making it too pretty

Mind maps are thinking tools, not art projects. Spending too much time on the style and appearance of your mind map can cause you to lose sight of the content and purpose of your mind map. While it is good to make your mind map attractive and appealing, you should not sacrifice the quality or clarity of your information for the sake of aesthetics. Focus on the structure and meaning of your mind map first, and then add some colors or themes if you want to enhance it. While images can complement and support the words, having too many images can make the mind map confusing and complicated.

Not organizing information

Mind maps are not random collections of bubbles and lines; rather, they are organized and logical representations of information. When you use design principles like hierarchy, grouping, spacing, alignment, etc., you structure your material in a way that makes sense and shows the relationships between ideas. Using different types of lines or connectors can also help you show different types of relationships, such as causal, logical, chronological, or hierarchical.

Not including other diagrams

Mind maps are not the only visual thinking tools for learning and creating. Other diagrams, such as charts, graphs, tables, and flowcharts, can sometimes help you present or analyze information more effectively. You can combine these diagrams with your mind map to create a more comprehensive and effective visual representation of your topic. For example, you can use a chart to show statistics or trends relating to your central idea, or a flowchart to show the steps or processes in your solution.

Summarising

Mind maps are powerful tools for learning and creativity. You can use them to structure information and generate ideas in a visual way that matches how your brain works. As they have a simple and hierarchical structure, you can go as deep or as broad as you want on any topic.

You can create mind maps using mind-mapping software or draw them manually using pen and paper. Many people find the latter helps them remember their mind maps more effectively than using mind-mapping software.

I hope this blog post has inspired you to try mind mapping for yourself. It is a fantastic tool that will improve your performance at work.

For more information, check out our mind mapping workshop where we will teach you how mind maps can improve your learning, creativity, and work performance.

• Arulselvi, E. “Mind Maps in Classroom Teaching and Learning.” Excellence in Education Journal , vol. 6, no. 2, 2017, pp. 50-65.
• Astriani, D., Susilo, H., et al. “Mind Mapping in Learning Models: A Tool to Improve Student Metacognitive Skills.” International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning , vol. 15, no. 6, 2020, pp. 4-17.
• Buzan, T., Buzan, B. The Mind Map Book . Pearson Education, 2006.
• Edwards, S., Cooper, N. “Mind Mapping as a Teaching Resource.” The Clinical Teacher , vol. 7, no. 4, 2010, pp. 236-239.
• Somers, M. J., Passerini, K., et al. “Using Mind Maps to Study How Business School Students and Faculty Organize and Apply General Business Knowledge.” The International Journal of Management Education , vol. 12, no.1, 2014, pp. 1-13.
• Stankovic, N., Besic, C., et al. “The Evaluation of Using Mind Maps in Teaching.” TechnicsTechnologies Education Management , vol. 6, no. 2, 2011, pp. 337-343.
• Tee, T. K., Azman, M. N., et al. “Buzan Mind Mapping: An Efficient Technique for Note-Taking.” International Journal of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences , vol. 8, no. 1, 2014, pp. 28-31.
• Willis, C., Miertschin, S. “Mind Maps as Active Learning Tools.” Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges , vol. 21, no. 4, 2006, pp. 266–272.

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23 mind map examples for brainstorming & planning

Whether you're designing a product, managing your strategy , or defining project goals, visually communicating an idea helps collaborators understand what you want to accomplish. If you're having trouble putting your idea on paper, a mind map can help get you started.

Mind maps are diagrams that start with a central concept or question, and branches into subtopics and related ideas. These maps help you visualize how ideas connect so you can find new solutions.

In this article, we share 23 mind map examples and templates to help you find the best one for your next project.

1. Simple mind map example

Best for: first-time mind mappers and ideas that need developing

The simple mind map template centers around a main topic, goal, or problem. This brainstorming tool offers a shared visual space to put your ideas on paper (or an online whiteboard ). This mind map illustrates how ideas flow and branch into subtopics.

The sky's the limit when it comes to how you can use and adapt this mind map template to your own needs. A project manager might use it to:

• Brainstorm project requirements: You can use a mind map to break a big project into smaller pieces or individual steps.
• Present ideas to stakeholders: Mind maps present complex ideas in a simple format, making it easy for big-picture thinkers to understand the project.

Design tip: Start with one central theme and collaborate with your team to collect new ideas and flesh out concepts during a brainstorming session.

2. Bubble map example

Best for: early-stage planning and collaborative brainstorming

Bubble maps are a popular mind map type. While the simple mind map template includes subcategories, not all bubble maps take that approach. Instead, use them in early-stage brainstorming to help your team lay out core ideas. Once everyone contributes their suggestions, you can assign roles or create a project plan .

Design tip: Color-code bubbles to categorize them or note who added them.

3. Flow chart example

Best for: proficient mind mappers tackling more complex projects

Flow charts create more dynamic connections between subtopics than other mind maps. While most mind maps revolve around a central idea, flow charts outline a series of steps and processes from beginning to end. Their branching structure can also map different routes to the same solution or workflows teams follow in parallel.

On the product side, creating a flow chart visualizes how you want to make a deliverable or how users will interact with it. The sequence of steps helps order your priorities and fine-tune processes.

Design tip: Use arrows to denote the flow of information or the order in a process.

4. Problem-solving mind map example

Best for: individuals or teams solving an issue

A problem-solving mind map drills down on a central issue, its causes, and solutions, detailing the complexity of a problem. Causes, effects, and any unintended consequences of your response all tie together. As a result, problem-solving maps frame a challenge from every angle.

This map plays a role when:

• Facing a complicated business problem
• Organizing a response to an issue
• Outlining the causes of a challenge you’re facing
• Weighing solutions to find one that’s the quickest or most cost-effective

Design tip: Color-code your responses based on who’s tackling each aspect of a problem.

5. Opportunity solution brainstorming example

Best for: managers and teams working toward a specific outcome

This mind map helps you brainstorm solutions to create a desired outcome. Unlike problem-solving templates, this map focuses on an end goal, not an obstacle in your way. It breaks comprehensive goals into more manageable stages and lets you note any resources needed along the way.

For a better collaboration, review the mind map with your team for their insight and revisions. After a project starts, teams can use the template to stay coordinated and on the right track.

Design tip: Color-code boxes or lines for business objectives to note which teams handle which solutions.

6. Project management example

Best for: project managers looking to visualize complex projects

A project management mind map lets you focus on project specifics without losing sight of the big picture. Large projects can take coordination between departments. This map shows how teams work alongside each other to meet specific goals, and managers can use it to improve workflows and increase efficiency. You can also use this mind map to:

• Facilitate project meetings
• Split tasks among your team
• Define team goals and priorities
• Onboard new software
• Document problems and potential solutions
• Map out the steps to achieve project goals

Design tip: To limit the size of your mind map and stay organized, consider breaking off secondary processes into a new mind map.

7. Time management example

Best for: project managers assigning and prioritizing tasks

This time management template uses the mind map format to order tasks over a project lifecycle. You can consider the project the central topic for this chart. Arrows leading to a milestone contain steps in development. The template also gives space for requirements, team assignments, or tools needed to complete tasks.

Time management mind maps help teams and stakeholders gauge progress over a project lifecycle. If certain steps run under or over time, you can make changes to the timeline.

8. Product development mind map example

Best for: product managers, designers, and developers

This product map template breaks new initiatives into features, story points, and debts. For agile developers, this map outlines their process in clearly defined steps and sprints. Thanks to its nonlinear structure, teams can see how they work in tandem. It also encourages collaboration with a suggestion box in the corner.

Mapping developers' progress on a shared map makes tracking each team’s dev work easy. You can also use the map to check which devs have tackled a particular feature or story point. This mind map organizes fast-paced development into an easy-to-read format.

9. Business planning example

Best for: founders, investors, and business leaders who want to visualize their strategies

Business plans are documents listing a company’s objectives, identity, and processes. This mind map visually organizes and connects related parts of a business plan, which helps you brainstorm the steps to your goals, choose where to invest resources, and refine your strategic planning .

This holistic view of your business should include a few key elements:

• A high-level description of your company
• The products or services you offer
• Marketing strategies based on your competition
• Financial information
• Management summaries for your team and company leaders
• Operations information on your teams and processes

Design tip: Use the mind map at the center of this chart to lay out core business information. The surrounding diagrams help build out these initial ideas.

10. Organization structure example

Best for: HR and management teams

An organization structure mind map outlines the departments and teams within a company. You can use it to identify leaders who make decisions and employees who carry them out. Lines between roles also show who reports to whom.

Employee icons can list an individual’s role and other helpful information, like the time zone they work in. As a result, you can see who is responsible for what. New hires can also use this mind map to learn the company structure.

11. Logistics flow example

Best for: distributors and order fulfillment teams

A logistics flow mind map visualizes how you fulfill customer orders. The chart notes internal distribution to warehouses and customer deliveries, outlining the next step at every distribution stage.

When delivering items at a large scale, well-defined processes are key. This mind map charts a consistent process you can use for order fulfillment. It also visualizes the ramifications of changing your approach, reminding you how changes affect downstream steps.

12. Financial planning example

Best for: individuals setting a budget

A financial planning mind map tallies income, expenses, and financial goals. The map organizes short-term expenses like bills and long-term ones like retirement savings. It also tracks your current income and future earnings from a pension.

This template paints a holistic picture of your cash flow and income-to-expenses ratio. It also lets you weigh financial goals against your current financial position so, you can set attainable goals and avoid overspending.

13. Sales funnel example

Best for: sales managers and their teams

This sales funnel template maps the process of moving leads down the sales funnel. The subpoints related to each topic sit inside the funnel instead of in nodes. Under each topic, you can note problems, methods, and considerations for moving customers along.

Sales methods tend to change over time—documenting your approach can help improve your process or switch tactics if one strategy doesn't interest leads. Specifically, you might use this map when deciding how to approach a lead or collaborating on new sales strategies.

14. Human resources onboarding example

Best for: HR employees

This mind map lists your HR department’s tasks when onboarding a new hire. The mind map breaks up priorities based on time, so the tasks due before, during, and after the new hire’s first day appear in their own category.

This chart keeps HR teams organized during onboarding. HR leaders can also give it to new hires for reference or share it with managers to refine their processes as business needs change.

Design tip: Include a picture of the employee and some basic information to personalize the chart.

15. Job hiring example

Best for: managers and HR teams

This mind map charts the process of filling a job opening on your team. Unlike the onboarding template, this map follows a more high-level approach. It breaks the main hiring steps into subcategories and allows you to fill in company-specific information for your hiring strategy.

Job hiring templates help managers and HR teams design a hiring process where they can cooperate on strategic decisions and priorities. Listing job criteria and hiring best practices on this mind map also keeps them accessible.

16. Web design example

Best for: domain owners and Web designers

This Web design template gives a high-level overview of what will go onto your Web pages. This map paints a picture of your Website’s UX by including high-priority links in the header and footer, search functions, and images. While you can organize pages for blogs and features, that doesn’t come at the cost of mapping your core page structure.

You might use this template when:

• Working in the early stages of Web design
• Picking your Website’s core functions
• Designing your Website’s interface

17. Site map example

Best for: Web designers and developers

This site map template allows you to map out how pages connect on your Website. While the Web design template focuses on UX, this chart focuses more on subdomains and links connecting pages. Illustrating your site architecture helps optimize it and ensure pages link together intuitively. Managers and Web designers can also share suggestions and feedback on the map.

18. Blog structure example

Best for: content marketers and Web developers

Blog mind maps visualize the structure of an SEO-optimized blog page. They list the categories covering topics related to your business and the number of articles within them.

Developers can use this template to understand the full scope of a blog they'll build. It also allows marketers to hone in on keywords that capture the most traffic. Since blogging is an important marketing element, building an optimized blog can draw in new customers and help define your user personas .

Design tip: Include topic ideas underneath the lowest boxes to brainstorm the kinds of articles you want to write.

19. Meeting agenda example

Best for: meeting leaders or team members who want to contribute to an agenda

This meeting agenda template blurs the line between a mind map and an agenda. Like a mind map, it's built around a central topic—in this case, the meeting—and team members can add discussion points or additional notes. Your agenda outlines the points covered in your meeting, whether it's a regular get-together or preparation for a new project.

20. Transportation example

Best for: individuals and businesses planning transportation

Transportation mind maps outline the logistics of planning transport. They account for the cost, time, and resources that go into getting from point A to point B. You can also adjust these variables based on where you're going and when. This chart lets you organize transportation options in a central place your team can refer to at any time.

21. Event planning example

Best for: event organizers

An event planning mind map outlines the tasks needed to prepare for a special occasion. Instead of branching into nodes around a central topic, categories revolve around tasks due at different intervals. You can also enter event details and ideas into an overview section. This template helps event planners stay organized and share their schedules with vendors and other stakeholders.

22. Note-taking example

Best for: those taking meeting or class notes

Note-taking templates provide a visual alternative to writing bulleted notes on a page. With this template, you can note how broad concepts break off into smaller ideas and explain their differences.

This template shows visual learners how ideas connect, and conveys information more quickly than reading down lists of facts on a page making it one of the best mind map examples for students. Use it for:

• Listing crucial ideas during a lecture
• Sharing information with someone who couldn’t attend a meeting
• Summarizing the main points in a lesson

If you're looking for a more straightforward note-taking template, consider these:

• Meeting notes template
• Sticky notes template

23. Creative writing example

Best for: writers and editors who create story overviews

Creative writing mind maps visualize the most critical elements of a story—your plot, characters, themes, and setting all relate when writing a narrative. With this map, you can create a visual relationship between specific themes, chapters, and characters.

Mapping a story lets you hone in on its most essential qualities. Whether that means charting a central theme or the story's climax, you can highlight the story's main message. You can also use this template to pitch your story to agents and publishers.

5 key characteristics of mind maps

If you’re new to diagramming, you might not recognize mind maps on sight. Plenty of diagrams help with brainstorming, but mind maps play a key role in early-stage ideation and planning. Typically, a mind map has five elements:

• The chart revolves around a central image or idea.
• Themes branch out from the main idea.
• These branches include a keyword or image labeled on their lines.
• Less important topics typically only appear as "twigs" on these branches.
• The branches form a unified structure made up of individual nodes.

Mind mapping FAQ

We’ve answered a few common questions about mind maps below.

What is the best type of mind map?

The best mind map depends on the specific task you’re planning for. When you need to manage a project, design a Website, or make financial plans, there’s a mind map for it. If you’re in the early planning stages, a general template will likely suit you better. For that, we recommend the simple mind map , bubble map , or flow chart .

What mind-mapping best practices should I keep in mind?

On top of choosing the right template, here are a few tips to make the most of your mind map:

• Color-code related ideas to visually associate them.
• Use arrows and icons to show how ideas connect.
• Make sure your mind map branches out from one central topic or idea.
• Keep the text short and clear to let the visuals convey information.

Do I need mind map software?

You don't need a dedicated service to make or customize mind maps. However, platforms like FigJam offer the chance to collaborate on mind maps remotely via our online whiteboard tool. We also provide a library of over 300 templates to help kick-start your creativity.

Improve team collaboration with FigJam

Mind maps aren’t just places to list ideas. As you can see from the mind map examples above, these diagrams give you the space to think through solutions and explore ideas collaboratively.

The good news is, you don't have to create a mind map from scratch. Get started on your next project using our FigJam mind map template . We also provide a library of over 300 templates to help kick-start your creativity.

Visual problem solving with flowcharts and mind maps

What’s life without problems? Probably a little boring, if we’re being honest. If everything were perfect all the time, there would be no challenges, and things would get pretty monotonous. This is a rather optimistic view on what many believe to be an aggravating part of life. No matter how you feel about problems, one thing is true: problems are inevitable . You can’t always control how many problems you encounter in your life, but you can learn better ways to solve them. So, what can we do for those really complex issues that aren’t easily solved? Visual problem solving is the perfect way to see solutions and break down complex issues.

Make your own flowchart with Gleek .

What is visual problem solving?

Visual problem solving is the process of using aids like charts or diagrams to display all the aspects of a problem in order to find viable solutions. When problem solving, sometimes it’s hard to see what’s causing the problem, or other relationships and correlations that are affecting whatever it is you’re working on. Two common methods for problem solving include mind maps and flowcharts . A mind map is a non-linear diagram, used for making new ideas or breaking down complex issues. A flowchart is a linear diagram, used for making action plans and describing processes.

5 steps to solve problems

Identify the true problem

Maybe you know what the issue is in clear terms, or perhaps it’s still a little confusing. A good way to get a concrete vision of the problem you need to solve is to pose it as a question, or a short statement. You might come up with something like ‘our sales have dropped’, or, as a question ‘what can we do to increase sales?’.

Get information

Now that you have a clear objective to solve, the next step is to gather all the relevant information that pertains to the issue. This can look like statistics, comments from customers, employee feedback, and more. Once you’ve collected the data, you’ll need to analyze it from all angles to get a clear view on the topic.

Brainstorming session

Get any and all potential solution ideas out on the table. Doesn’t matter how silly an idea seems, just put anything that comes to mind on the drawing board. This is where your visual aids will really come in handy, especially mind maps. You might need more than one chart, depending on how complicated the issue is.

Choose the best idea(s)

Whether on your own or with a team, you’ll have to eliminate the potential solutions that just won’t work. To find the solution that’ll work best, it’s good to analyze it in the same way you did the problem – by looking at potential outcomes, and all facets involved.

Make an action plan

So you think you’ve found the perfect solution! Now what? If your problem is complicated, usually the solution will be too. Here is where another visual aid, like a flowchart, will be helpful. Map out the specific steps you need in order to implement your solution. Then, it’s time to put your plan into action.

These are just the basic steps you can use to start problem solving. You may find that other actions are needed during your own journey.

Common mistakes when problem solving

Mistakes? We all make them from time to time. Here are some common mistakes we are prone to when trying to fix problems.

Undefined problem – When identifying the problem, it’s possible that the problem is too big, multi-faceted, or too complex to tackle all at once. A way to avoid this is to break the problem down into chunks, following common themes.

More problems arise – This isn’t always a direct result of anything we do, but it can happen nonetheless. The best way to deal with more problems that arise when you’re trying to solve the original one is to think of the possible things that could go wrong during the solution stage. When you’re prepared for any situation, you’ll rarely have any setbacks.

No action plan – Finding a way to solve your problem doesn’t mean that the planning is over. On the contrary, you need to create a strategy to properly execute your solution so you won’t end up with a half-solved problem and even more issues than you started with.

When to use flowcharts

One way to chart your problems and progress is through flowcharts. For those who like to think in a step-by-step or linear fashion, flowcharts are the best way to visualize things. Let’s have a look at some situations that are best suited to flowcharts.

Big problems – Flowcharts can help break down a large problem or solution into specific steps or stages from start to finish.

Decision trees – This type of flowchart is helpful when diagramming actions that will happen as a result of other actions, whether they be in a software system or actions taken by people.

Cause and effect – Similar to a decision tree, a cause and effect flowchart is where you can analyze the potential results of various actions, past or present.

Check out our 20 flowchart templates that you can also easily edit !

When to use mind maps

Mind maps are great for brainstorming sessions, and non-linear problem solving. Here are some situations that are best visualized through a mind map.

Finding the problem – So, what is the problem exactly? Sometimes it’s hard to see. Making a mind map offers you the opportunity to see all the moving parts involved with a situation, and how they relate to one another, and can help you suss out the true problem.

Core and branching ideas – You start with a core idea, such as ‘online sales’, then add related ideas or issues branching off from that, like maybe ‘ad revenue’, or ‘social media campaigns’. Then those ideas can have their own branches. This is an easy way to analyze all aspects of a problem.

Source: Problem Solving with Mind Maps (Tutorial)

Looking to create your own flowchart? Gleek has the solution for you. With Gleek, you can create your own flowcharts using a text-based command center, without ever using your mouse. Not only can you create flowcharts, you can create many other UML-based diagrams that will wow your colleagues and bring new life to your presentations. Get started for free today .

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A step-by-step guide to creating a flowchart in Google Docs

7 stages of the product development process (flowchart example)

back to all posts

What is a mind map?

Table of Contents

Understanding mind maps.

Mind maps are simple yet powerful diagrams for quickly jotting down your ideas and expanding on them. And with the right tool, they can be the perfect outlet for any brainstorming or ideation session. We’ve prepared the ultimate guide to what a mind map is, including all its key benefits and how you can get started.

Let’s dive in.

A mind map is a simple but powerful diagram that outlines your ideas in a visual format. Creating a mind map adds structure to your thoughts, giving you a clearer picture of every idea and how they relate.

Mind maps usually contain a central idea placed in the middle of the diagram, which you can break down and expand on using branches — typically represented by lines. This simple format makes mind mapping especially great for brainstorming and ideation.

For example, let’s say you’re creating a mind map about product development. You’d write ‘Product development’ in the middle of your map, and probably add branches that each point to one of the following sub-ideas:

New features

Customer feedback

Market trends

Competitor analysis

You might also want to connect some of your subtopics to each other. For instance, if you have customer feedback about a new product feature that aligns with trends in the marketplace, you could connect these two ideas to highlight their relationship.

Why use mind maps?

We know what a mind map is — but what makes them so effective? Simply put: the way a mind map is structured mirrors how the human brain works. Every time a piece of information enters your brain, it gets added to a complex neural network made up of central nodes connected by smaller branches.

In other words, it’s exactly what a mind map is.

Unlike note-taking, for example, which requires you to list your thoughts out linearly, mind mapping makes it easy to process your thoughts holistically — just as your brain does. It allows you to identify multiple thoughts at once and instantly draw connections between them, making it ideal for activities like brainstorming and ideation.

We’ll cover the specific benefits in more detail in the next section.

What are the benefits of mind mapping?

Mind mapping offers numerous benefits that can enhance learning, productivity, and creativity. Learning about these advantages helps form a more solid understanding of what a mind map is. Let’s take a look:

Generate new and creative ideas

Mind mapping is a great way to encourage innovative thinking and develop new ideas. The visual format encourages teams to break free from conventional thinking patterns and venture outside the box. It also helps teams generate new ideas by building on top of contributions from other team members. For example, if someone suggests an idea for a new software feature, it might spark a new idea for someone else.

Make complex ideas easier to understand

A mind map is a simple way of breaking down a complex idea into smaller, more manageable parts. Think about a website launch as an example. There are many complex and technical elements to planning a website launch, but a mind map helps you break it down and visualize how all the different parts work together.

Effective planning

Mind maps are excellent tools for planning projects, outlining articles, or creating strategies — providing a visual roadmap that helps communicate the entire scope and sequence of a project.

Improve collaboration

Mind mapping is an excellent place to start boosting team collaboration. It helps teams work together by encouraging open communication and discussing new ideas. Collaboration becomes even easier if you use the right mind mapping tool . Miro, for example, comes with powerful live and async collaboration tools. You can tag team members in comments , upload visual notes , and easily add your mind map to presentations.

What type of projects are mind maps used for?

Mimicking the way our brains naturally associate and connect ideas is what a mind map’s design is all about. This makes them an effective tool for brainstorming , problem-solving, and strategic planning . Below are some common scenarios where using a mind map is helpful.

Project ideation

Use a mind map to generate new ideas for upcoming projects. You can discuss what type of projects you should run, why they’ll benefit the business, and what those projects should involve.

Process improvement

Mind maps help you identify new ways to improve your existing processes. Think about HR processes as an example. You could use a mind map to figure out how to improve onboarding or streamline the hiring process.

Product development

Mind mapping can help you generate new ideas for product development. You discuss new product features, upgrades, and other relevant improvements to your current product line.

Problem-solving

If you and your team are facing a problem, using a mind map can help you find new ways to solve it. For example, if you have a high customer turnover, you can use a mind map to identify the cause of the problem and devise a solution. Because mind mapping encourages creative thinking, it also helps teams develop solutions they might not have thought of otherwise.

Concept map vs. mind map: What’s the difference?

To properly cover what a mind map is, it’s important to consider what it isn’t. And it’s common to confuse mind maps with concept maps. That said, there are key differences.

A concept map focuses on the relationships between concepts, while a mind map focuses on a single core idea. Teams use concept maps to define how ideas relate to each other and to understand complex subjects.

Let’s use software development as an example of how a concept map helps teams to understand complex topics.

For teams to understand how to improve a piece of software, they need to know how it operates, which is where a concept map helps. It shows all the elements of the software and how they connect in a clear structure. As a result, teams can understand how the system works and identify areas of improvement.

Concept maps also use a hierarchical structure. The core concept sits at the top of the diagram, with related ideas underneath. The concepts are connected with lines or arrows, which are labeled to explain the relationship between them.

Tip: Think you need a concept map instead of a mind map? Save time with our free and customizable Concept Map Template .

Create a mind map with Miro

Mind maps are valuable tools for generating new ideas and adding structure to your thoughts. For teams, they’re a great way to encourage collaboration and help team members think outside the box.

If you’re considering running a mind mapping session, dive into Miro’s Mind Map Template , or use the mind map creator to start from scratch for your next project. With automated diagramming tools at your fingertips, you can effortlessly expand your mind map and connect related ideas in seconds. Plus — with our powerful collaboration tools, your team can easily build a detailed mind map even if you aren’t in the same room.

Learn more about how to make a mind map and get started for free.

Discover more

What is a concept map?

How to make a concept map?

A guide to Venn diagrams

Bubble maps: Everything to know about this visual tool

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Mind Maps: How-to Guide With Examples

April 22, 2022 - 7 min read

What is a mind map, and how can it help organize ideas in our brains? A mind map is a highly effective tool used by creatives, marketers, and project managers to inspire their teams. In addition to sparking  employees’ creative juices, mind maps organize “timelines, dependencies, and responsibilities.” Furthermore, mind maps can serve as the initial step in your project planning process. 

Although it may sound like a far-fetched business tool, chances are you've used mind maps throughout your life. Whether it's a so-called "spider diagram" at school or planning out an essay in college, mind maps are very common. In fact,they even date back to the philosophers of ancient Greece and Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance.

While we all learn differently, many of us are much more attuned to visual learning, and mind maps use this to help us retain information more effectively. A 2002 study found that mind mapping improved the long-term memory of factual information in medical students by 10 percent, while another from the Mind Mapping Software Blog found that mind mapping can boost productivity by up to 23 percent.

Read on to discover what a mind map is, why it’s important, and how to use it to improve projects. Additionally, modern mind map tools like Miro can be seamlessly integrated with collaborative work management platforms like Wrike, ensuring a smooth transition from idea generation to project execution.

What is a mind map?

A mind map is an illustration with a keyword or phrase in the middle, lines connecting the middle to a main idea, and even more lines connecting the main ideas to details. Building out from the center, mind maps are often said to look like sunbursts or spiderwebs. Mind maps can have more than three levels (middle, main ideas, and details), but most stick with this model. 

Human brains don't organize all information into one strict hierarchical tree. Instead, associations radiating out (or in) from different connection points help our minds navigate a vast information pool to make decisions quickly. When written down, these associations create a mind map, a powerful communication and creativity tool used by many marketing project management teams. 

How to make a mind map

You may already be familiar with this tool if you’ve ever gone to public school, written an academic essay, or been diagnosed with dyslexia . 

Here’s how to create a mind map in five simple steps: 

• Choose the topic of the mind map and place it in the middle of the drawing 
• Come up with three to five main ideas, then evenly space them in a circular formation around the mind map topic 
• Draw a line from the mind map topic to each main idea 
• Brainstorm supporting details such as ideas, tasks, and questions for each main idea 
• Draw lines connecting each main idea to its supporting details 

Once the first draft is finished, add each main idea as a phase to your project management software. Create related tasks with due dates and assign them to team members. Add any questions or related ideas to individual task notes. 

Mind mapping examples

Effective brainstorming is all about starting with a clear purpose. In the following mind mapping examples, we’ll go over a couple of ways this tool can be used and the specific categories each team used to get the job done. 

1. Hello Digital Marketing

Creative agencies can use mind maps to develop a holistic business strategy that aligns marketing with customer service, productivity, and other key departments. In this mind mapping example, Hello Digital lays out three topics connected vertically, with their main ideas and details branching out to the right of the illustration. Here are the components the marketing agency uses in the productivity section: 

• Topic 1: Productivity
• Main idea 1: Project management
• Details: Wrike and other tools they use
• Main idea 2: Office tasks
• Details: Supplies, cleaning, and maintenance
• Main idea 3: Environment
• Details: Collaborative, cubicle, by department

Thinking of their marketing, customer service, and productivity as pieces of one big puzzle and mind mapping it out accordingly allows Hello Digital to connect action with impact so everyone can understand it at a glance. 

2. Inside Out: The Film

Independent filmmakers use mind maps to brainstorm “scenes, characters, ideas” as well as financing, production logistics, and target audiences. In this mind map example, the author builds their protagonist using one topic (the character’s name) and multiple main ideas, including: 

• Romantic life
• Personal style
• Personality type
• Family history 

The author says that the ideas formed here are easy to add to project management tools, which turn these inspirations into bite-size, accomplishable tasks. 

What are the benefits of mind maps?

In project management, creative brainstorming is key to solving problems, coming up with clear roadmaps, and generating unique outcomes, all of which are easy to do with mind mapping. 

Other mind map benefits for creative project management include: 

• Making meaningful connections between ideas
• Collaborating with teams virtually or when spread out across the globe
• Giving every team member space to contribute and have their voice heard
• Having a visual and easy-to-understand subject map
• Organizing a wide range of data, dependent projects, and related tasks 

What are the challenges of mind maps?

Mind maps are one of the most effective ways to encourage your marketing team’s best ideas , but they can be challenging to use at first. When learning how to mind map, it’s important to remember that this tool can be used for everything from big-picture business goals down to individual tasks within a subproject. Before your team begins brainstorming, agree on the mind map’s scope. If this isn’t clarified from the beginning, the mind map could be far too broad, narrow, or confusing for those who have to follow it later. 

How to inspire your creative team to use mind maps

If your team is feeling rundown or uninspired, give their creativity a boost using the B.U.I.L.D. model . The B.U.I.L.D. model is an acronym that stands for: B eing bored, U nwinding with a drink, I nspiring with color (i.e., using the psychology of colors and visual inspiration boards), L istening to music, and D rawing on paper. Doing these five actions in a row will help teams get out of their funk and develop better ideas for their mind map. 

Next steps: Put your mind map to work with Wrike

Now that you've discovered the potential of mind mapping to enhance creativity, foster better communication, and create foolproof project plans , it's time to find the perfect tool to streamline this process with your team. Wrike is your go-to solution for turning idea generation into seamless project execution. With powerful integrations like Miro , Wrike allows you to consolidate all your ideas into a neatly organized chart, making it easy for the entire company to visualize the project, tasks, and outcomes they're collectively working toward.

Maria Waida

Maria is a freelance content writer who specializes in blogging and other marketing materials for enterprise software businesses.

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