Mind mapping explained
A mind map matches how ideas connect, not how a list is ordered. It is useful for brainstorming, planning a piece of writing and revising for exams.
Keep words short on each branch. The shape of the map does much of the remembering for you.
Try it today
- Write your topic in the centre of a blank page.
- Add five to seven main branches without judging them.
- Add detail to the most promising branches and turn them into a plan.
Where it comes from
Tony Buzan popularised mind maps through his 1974 BBC television series Use Your Head and the books that followed.
Frequently asked questions
- What is mind mapping?
- Mind mapping is drawing your ideas as a diagram: a central topic in the middle, with branches for subtopics and smaller branches for details.
- Where does mind mapping come from?
- Tony Buzan popularised mind maps through his 1974 BBC television series Use Your Head and the books that followed.
- How do I start with mind mapping?
- Write your topic in the centre of a blank page. Add five to seven main branches without judging them. Add detail to the most promising branches and turn them into a plan.
- Which tools help with mind mapping?
- Tools in our directory that help include MindNode, Miro, Excalidraw, Taskade. Each has its own page with pricing, pros and cons.