Mind Mapping Benefits

Mind mapping theory postulates that organizing ideas in a connected tree-like map enhances your recall, clarity and creativity, as this technique mimics the way in which the brain's neural pathways themselves are structured.

The following table of Mind Map Benefits is posted online at the Buzan Centre:

  • The relative importance of each idea is clearly indicated by how near it is to the centre, which clearly features the main idea.
  • The links between key concepts will be immediately obvious from their proximity and connection to one another. The brain works primarily with key concepts that it links and integrates. Mind Mapping works in the same way, meaning that recall and review will be faster and more effective.
  • The nature of the Mind Mapping structure allows for the easy addition of new information.
  • Each Mind Map has its own unique pattern, which further aids recall.
  • The open-ended nature of the Mind Map is a great aid to creativity, allowing the brain to make new and exciting connections with ease.
  • With practice, you'll find Mind Maps help you to be your best in every thinking situation.

Mind Maps

Uses Benefits
Learning
  • Reduce those 'tons of work'.
  • Feel good about study, revision and exams.
  • Have confidence in your learning abilities
Overviewing
  • See the whole picture, the global view, at once.
  • Understand the links and connections
Concentrating
  • Focus on the task for better results
  • Using all your cortical skills attracts your attention
Memorising
  • Easy recall
  • 'See' the information in your mind's eye
Organising
  • Easy recall
  • Be on top of all the details for parties, holidays, projects or any other subject
Presenting
  • Speeches are clear, relaxed and alive. You can be at your best
Communicating
  • In all forms with clarity and conciseness
Meetings
  • From planning to agenda, to chairing, to taking the minutes...the jobs are completed with speed and efficiency
Training
  • From preparation to presentation, they make the job easier and much faster
Thinking
  • Having a method to analyse thoughts - almost a 'way station' for them
Negotiating
  • All issues, your position and maneuverability on one sheet
Brain Blooming
  • The new brain-storming in which more thoughts are generated and appropriately assessed.

Free mind-mapping software:

I use:
  • MaxThink - (Trial: 30-day fully functional software, or purchase for $29.)
11 Free Mind Mapping Applications and Web Services (Life Hacker)