Mindmapping

Mindmapping is a guide for problem solving. It may not be for everyone but I like working with it and getting a visual understanding of a problem or challenge.

My daughter, a bio-medic1al engineer who loves a spread sheet and a list, was shocked when she saw the chart. "Mom, is that how your mind works?" I had quite a chuckle.

Below are some elements of mind mapping from Mindmapping, Your Personal Guide to Exploring Creativity and Problem-Solving by Joyce Wycoff:

1. Central focus of an image or graphic representation of the problem or information being mapped is place in the center of the page;
2. Ideas flow without judgment;
3. Key words are used to represent ideas;
4. One key word is printed per line;
5. Key word ideas are connected to the central focus with lines;
6. Color is used to highlight and emphasize ideas;
7. Images and symbols are used to highlight ideas and stimulate the mind to make other connections.
   

 For more information on mindmapping, look for books by Tony Buzan, who developed this technique in the 1970's as a tool to help people take notes more effectively.

The Mind Map Book by Tony Buzan and Barry Buzan 

Use Both Sides of Your Brain by Tony Buzan