Though I have used mind map as a learning tool for years, though I still reading related books for a more systematic and organized way to draw them. Today I will introduce this tool a bit as well.
Mind map is a visualized note taking technique, which can make information more organized and facilitate creative problem solving. Unlike the list form or big paragraphs notes, mind map is fitter to humans’ thinking process (input and output in particular), and also more compact and organized.
Because of process writing (please refer to the last entry), I also came across with mind-map. After doing some rough reading, I started my first map of my life (during English lesson). Well, my first reception was that it is the right tool to facilitate my brainstorming rather than note taking. On that time, my drawing is pretty rough, yet not obeying the rules.
As I was started my study in HKU SPACE, I start to expand the usage of mind map from just writing compositions. Presentations, projects, meetings, etc, it really made my life easier. In this stage, my drawings are more refined, I start using numbers, linkage and colors, made them more readable and interesting.
This year, my last year of higher diploma course, the world seems getting even larger. I met two great teachers, as well as starting my career (and writing these stuff once a week :P), I further explore the usage of mind map besides of my studies. Yet I started to use computer software to draw my new maps (and remake my old maps too).
Thanks to Tony Buzan, the one who make this technique more systematic as well as more populated. He suggested a guideline for mind-mappers (see below), and frankly speaking I still have much to learn on obeying the rules.
1. Start in the center with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors.
2. Use images, symbols, codes, and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.
3. Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.
4. Each word/image is best alone and sitting on its own line.
5. The lines should be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the centre.
6. Make the lines the same length as the word/image they support.
7. Use multiple colors throughout the Mind Map, for visual stimulation and also to encode or group.
8. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.
9. Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.
10. Keep the Mind Map clear by using radial hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.
Despite of the importance of these rules, you can find your way through drawings, just like me. And hope you all will find it useful. :D
Next week: Some extensive use of mind maps, as well as showing some of my previous drawings.
