creative problem solving mind mapping

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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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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.

• 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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What is creative problem-solving?

Table of Contents

An introduction to creative problem-solving.

Creative problem-solving is an essential skill that goes beyond basic brainstorming . It entails a holistic approach to challenges, melding logical processes with imaginative techniques to conceive innovative solutions. As our world becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, the ability to think creatively and solve problems with fresh perspectives becomes invaluable for individuals, businesses, and communities alike.

Importance of divergent and convergent thinking

At the heart of creative problem-solving lies the balance between divergent and convergent thinking. Divergent thinking encourages free-flowing, unrestricted ideation, leading to a plethora of potential solutions. Convergent thinking, on the other hand, is about narrowing down those options to find the most viable solution. This dual approach ensures both breadth and depth in the problem-solving process.

Emphasis on collaboration and diverse perspectives

No single perspective has a monopoly on insight. Collaborating with individuals from different backgrounds, experiences, and areas of expertise offers a richer tapestry of ideas. Embracing diverse perspectives not only broadens the pool of solutions but also ensures more holistic and well-rounded outcomes.

Nurturing a risk-taking and experimental mindset

The fear of failure can be the most significant barrier to any undertaking. It's essential to foster an environment where risk-taking and experimentation are celebrated. This involves viewing failures not as setbacks but as invaluable learning experiences that pave the way for eventual success.

The role of intuition and lateral thinking

Sometimes, the path to a solution is not linear. Lateral thinking and intuition allow for making connections between seemingly unrelated elements. These 'eureka' moments often lead to breakthrough solutions that conventional methods might overlook.

Stages of the creative problem-solving process

The creative problem-solving process is typically broken down into several stages. Each stage plays a crucial role in understanding, addressing, and resolving challenges in innovative ways.

Clarifying: Understanding the real problem or challenge

Before diving into solutions, one must first understand the problem at its core. This involves asking probing questions, gathering data, and viewing the challenge from various angles. A clear comprehension of the problem ensures that effort and resources are channeled correctly.

Ideating: Generating diverse and multiple solutions

Once the problem is clarified, the focus shifts to generating as many solutions as possible. This stage champions quantity over quality, as the aim is to explore the breadth of possibilities without immediately passing judgment.

Developing: Refining and honing promising solutions

With a list of potential solutions in hand, it's time to refine and develop the most promising ones. This involves evaluating each idea's feasibility, potential impact, and any associated risks, then enhancing or combining solutions to maximize effectiveness.

Implementing: Acting on the best solutions

Once a solution has been honed, it's time to put it into action. This involves planning, allocating resources, and monitoring the results to ensure the solution is effectively addressing the problem.

Techniques for creative problem-solving

Solving complex problems in a fresh way can be a daunting task to start on. Here are a few techniques that can help kickstart the process:

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a widely-used technique that involves generating as many ideas as possible within a set timeframe. Variants like brainwriting (where ideas are written down rather than spoken) and reverse brainstorming (thinking of ways to cause the problem) can offer fresh perspectives and ensure broader participation.

Mind mapping

Mind mapping is a visual tool that helps structure information, making connections between disparate pieces of data. It is particularly useful in organizing thoughts, visualizing relationships, and ensuring a comprehensive approach to a problem.

SCAMPER technique

SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. This technique prompts individuals to look at existing products, services, or processes in new ways, leading to innovative solutions.

Benefits of creative problem-solving

Creative problem-solving offers numerous benefits, both at the individual and organizational levels. Some of the most prominent advantages include:

Finding novel solutions to old problems

Traditional problems that have resisted conventional solutions often succumb to creative approaches. By looking at challenges from fresh angles and blending different techniques, we can unlock novel solutions previously deemed impossible.

Enhanced adaptability in changing environments

In our rapidly evolving world, the ability to adapt is critical. Creative problem-solving equips individuals and organizations with the agility to pivot and adapt to changing circumstances, ensuring resilience and longevity.

Building collaborative and innovative teams

Teams that embrace creative problem-solving tend to be more collaborative and innovative. They value diversity of thought, are open to experimentation, and are more likely to challenge the status quo, leading to groundbreaking results.

Fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement

Creative problem-solving is not just about finding solutions; it's also about continuous learning and improvement. By encouraging an environment of curiosity and exploration, organizations can ensure that they are always at the cutting edge, ready to tackle future challenges head-on.

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How to Brainstorm with Mind Maps

Planning for more effective brainstorming.

Brainstorming has become a buzzword used for many different purposes. It is a powerful tool to help you create and grow ideas , alone or in a group. Its power lies in the simplicity of the application, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. So, what is brainstorming and how can you use mind maps to improve your next brainstorm? In this article, you’ll learn more about brainstorming, how to properly prepare for an effective brainstorm, and finally, why you should use mind maps for your next session. 

Brainstorming 101

Brainstorming is known as a technique for generating ideas, finding solutions and solving problems . According to Alex F. Osborn , American ad executive and the father of brainstorming, “brainstorming means using the brain to storm a creative problem and to do so in commando fashion, with each stormer audaciously attacking the same objective.”

Now, you’ve probably used brainstorming for work, school, or even when planning a personal project or vacation. So you know brainstorming is an incredibly powerful tool to master. When done right, it can be effective at drawing out new ideas . When done wrong, it can be a waste of time. 

Individual Versus Group Brainstorming

You can absolutely brainstorm alone. For many projects, solo brainstorming sessions are sufficient. But, if you’ve got a large or particularly difficult problem to solve, a group session may lead to better results . In a group, a large number of ideas can be generated in a short amount of time. Additionally, when you brainstorm with a diverse group, unique solutions tend to crop up because brainstorming makes it possible to productively tap a group’s creative intelligence and generative potential. 

If you can’t meet with a group in person, there are several options for remote brainstorming . Using a web-based tool will allow you to collaborate with a group of people no matter where you are. There are many options for brainstorming tools that allow you to collaborate in real time. In particular, using collaborative mind mapping software allows you to work together in real time and then organize the groups’ thoughts quickly and easily. Regardless of the approach you take, whether in person or remote, you need to do a bit of advanced preparation before you get started.

Lay the Groundwork

There are a lot of best practices involved in effective brainstorming. If the right environment is created, brainstorming can be highly effective . Better planning makes brainstorming more productive. As with any endeavor, it is essential to prepare, follow a structured process, and when needed, get help from a professional. 

So, how do you prepare your brainstorming session for success?

Define the Ground Rules

Effective brainstorming doesn’t limit ideas or stifle creativity with too many rules. However, it is important to outline specific guidelines to encourage individual contributions. Before the brainstorming session begins, draft some participation rules to share with the group. Here are a few rules you should include: 

• Define the problem that needs to be solved.
• Implement the “Yes, and” method . 
• Write down all ideas, not just the “good” ones.
• Make sure everyone shares at least one idea. 

Learn from the experts. The team at IDEO is comprised of design-thinking experts. They’ve crafted a downloadable rules sheet for your next brainstorming session.

Download the rules sheet now.

Play by the Rules

Now, it might seem counterintuitive to have rules for a process that should be open and creative . But as Brendan Boyle, IDEO Partner and IDEO Play Lab Founder says,

“Done right, brainstorming can be amazing. It’s a lot like a game. If no one plays by the rules, it’s a disaster. But follow them and you’ll be surprised at how freeing and fruitful it can be.” Brendan Boyle, IDEO Partner and IDEO Play Lab Founder

Rules help to provide structure so everyone knows what to expect and how to contribute.  Now that the rules are in place, you’re ready to organize the next steps. 

Define the Process and Tools

It is critical to get everybody involved in the process. Consider the needs of your team and organization by asking yourself: How can you get the maximum out of a meeting to spark new ideas or creative solutions? How can you give everybody an equal voice in meetings and generate ideas?

To make sure everyone has an equal voice, try using online, web-based software. A collaborative brainstorming tool, like MindMeister , can successfully help you capture individual and group contributions , whether you are in a room together or brainstorming remotely. And, mind maps allow you to visualize the thinking of all participants. 

Nominate the Right Facilitator

For brainstorming to work, you need an insightful and flexible facilitator. This can be a person in your team who is nominated to lead the effort by outlining and implementing the ground rules, keeping time during the brainstorming process, and making sure that things run smoothly. 

The right facilitator needn’t be a trained professional. They should have some experience with brainstorming sessions, be a good communicator, and most importantly, be unbiased. The brainstorming group needs to be guided by the facilitator, so it is essential to have a leader who is appointed within your team, or you might consider hiring an external facilitator if no internal person fits the criteria.

Invite Your Dream Team

When assembling your brainstorming group, it is important to consider what skill, expertise, or perspective each person brings to the table. The right combination of people will result in more, and often, better ideas . Not every person invited should be an ‘expert’. In fact, non-experts often bring novel ideas and perspectives to the table because they aren’t yet affected by industry knowledge or too much context.

Each member’s background is important, but it also depends on the synergy of the group. That’s why this step requires a careful selection of participants. It is vital to invite people relevant for the discussion, as the number of ideas per participant declines as group size increases. 

Brainstorming with Mind Maps

Once you’ve laid the proper brainstorming groundwork, you can begin to plan your session. This process usually falls to the facilitator in collaboration with other stakeholders relevant to the topic of the brainstorming session. 

Define a fixed amount of time for each step. Keep track of the time with a stopwatch, giving people a warning when time is close to expiring. This helps keep the process moving while also not letting it drag on.

The Diverge, Explore, Converge Process

There are many ways to approach this sort of creative thinking exercise, and there is no single technique for brainstorming. However, most effective brainstorming processes involve a progressive sequence of divergent (or ‘generative’), explorative, and convergent thinking.

For this next step, we are going to show you how to brainstorm in a mind map using the “diverge, explore, converge” process. Mind mapping supports all three stages of the process in one visual structure. They help you to capture, expand, and refine your thinking in one coherent and visual space. 

Step 1: Diverge

The first part of a brainstorm focuses on idea generation . The goal is quantity . At this stage, we are not concerned with quality or fully formed ideas. We want to generate a volume of thoughts related to our topic, which we will bring into the next stage.

Let’s imagine we’re brainstorming ideas for a company event. If we’re using a mind map, then we’d put this as the central topic.  

If you’re working alone, you can jump right into the process. Start to drop ideas into your mind map , aiming to create a big list of ideas. 

To help this part of the process, you may choose to introduce other techniques to trigger creative thinking . Some examples include flashcards or word association games . You can even add trigger questions in your mind map like ‘who, what, when, where, why, and how’.

If you’re brainstorming as a group , it’s a good idea to get people working alone first . They can use sticky notes or a simple piece of paper. You don’t want them to be influenced by hearing or seeing ideas from other people. Brainstorming alone gives everyone a chance to get their original ideas clear before being influenced by others. 

Step 2: Explore

After you have lots of ideas , the next step is to begin seeing if and how they fit together . At this stage, you can develop concepts further. An easy way to start this process is to categorize your ideas and see what items you can batch together.

In our event planning brainstorm, there are several ideas that could be batched together under the heading of “Entertainment”. There may be another set of items that could be batched under “Food & Drink” and so on. 

Mind mapping software is excellent for this part of the process. It helps you to quickly and easily batch items together . After, y ou can build on ideas by either adding, moving or editing the information. Once you identify the ‘Theme’ category, related concepts are triggered and added to that category. You can use the mind map to continue to build out topics and break items down into parts . This is a crucial part of the ‘explore’ phase.  

Step 3: Converge

The final step in the process ensures people come away from the brainstorm with clear priorities, goals, and next steps . Spend time determining which items should get attention, and use the mind map to identify tangible actions and next steps .

Use images or icons in your mind map to flag priority items, draw attention to ideas and prioritize to-dos. Graphics aren’t just fun. They are a practical way to enhance your mind map.

In the ‘Themes’ section of our mind map, we can start to define tasks for each topic. We could also use icons or colors to illustrate the ideas we like or don’t like.  

After the brain dump, it’s essential to turn those ideas into action. Learning how to brainstorm with mind maps supports the creative ‘Diverge’ phase, and the more practically focused ‘Explore’ and ‘Converge’ phases. This process helps people to see the developing picture and collaboratively build on each other’s ideas and thinking. Once you’ve successfully conducted your session, make sure to follow up with next steps and deliverables. This helps keep people engaged and ensures useful work comes out of the session. Brainstorming is fun and creative, but it’s also filled with long and complicated discussions. So, make sure the discussion doesn’t stop when people leave the room.

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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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Nine essential problem solving tools: The ultimate guide to finding a solution

October 26, 2023 by MindManager Blog

Problem solving may unfold differently depending on the industry, or even the department you work in. However, most agree that before you can fix any issue, you need to be clear on what it is, why it’s happening, and what your ideal long-term solution will achieve.

Understanding both the nature and the cause of a problem is the only way to figure out which actions will help you resolve it.

Given that most problem-solving processes are part inspiration and part perspiration, you’ll be more successful if you can reach for a problem solving tool that facilitates collaboration, encourages creative thinking, and makes it easier to implement the fix you devise.

The problem solving tools include three unique categories: problem solving diagrams, problem solving mind maps, and problem solving software solutions.

They include:

• Fishbone diagrams
• Strategy maps
• Mental maps
• Concept maps
• Layered process audit software
• Charting software
• MindManager

In this article, we’ve put together a roundup of versatile problem solving tools and software to help you and your team map out and repair workplace issues as efficiently as possible.

Let’s get started!

Problem solving diagrams

Mapping your way out of a problem is the simplest way to see where you are, and where you need to end up.

Not only do visual problem maps let you plot the most efficient route from Point A (dysfunctional situation) to Point B (flawless process), problem mapping diagrams make it easier to see:

• The root cause of a dilemma.
• The steps, resources, and personnel associated with each possible solution.
• The least time-consuming, most cost-effective options.

A visual problem solving process help to solidify understanding. Furthermore, it’s a great way for you and your team to transform abstract ideas into a practical, reconstructive plan.

Here are three examples of common problem mapping diagrams you can try with your team:

1. Fishbone diagrams

Fishbone diagrams are a common problem solving tool so-named because, once complete, they resemble the skeleton of a fish.

With the possible root causes of an issue (the ribs) branching off from either side of a spine line attached to the head (the problem), dynamic fishbone diagrams let you:

• Lay out a related set of possible reasons for an existing problem
• Investigate each possibility by breaking it out into sub-causes
• See how contributing factors relate to one another

Fishbone diagrams are also known as cause and effect or Ishikawa diagrams.

2. Flowcharts

A flowchart is an easy-to-understand diagram with a variety of applications. But you can use it to outline and examine how the steps of a flawed process connect.

Made up of a few simple symbols linked with arrows indicating workflow direction, flowcharts clearly illustrate what happens at each stage of a process – and how each event impacts other events and decisions.

3. Strategy maps

Frequently used as a strategic planning tool, strategy maps also work well as problem mapping diagrams. Based on a hierarchal system, thoughts and ideas can be arranged on a single page to flesh out a potential resolution.

Once you’ve got a few tactics you feel are worth exploring as possible ways to overcome a challenge, a strategy map will help you establish the best route to your problem-solving goal.

Problem solving mind maps

Problem solving mind maps are especially valuable in visualization. Because they facilitate the brainstorming process that plays a key role in both root cause analysis and the identification of potential solutions, they help make problems more solvable.

Mind maps are diagrams that represent your thinking. Since many people struggle taking or working with hand-written or typed notes, mind maps were designed to let you lay out and structure your thoughts visually so you can play with ideas, concepts, and solutions the same way your brain does.

By starting with a single notion that branches out into greater detail, problem solving mind maps make it easy to:

• Explain unfamiliar problems or processes in less time
• Share and elaborate on novel ideas
• Achieve better group comprehension that can lead to more effective solutions

Mind maps are a valuable problem solving tool because they’re geared toward bringing out the flexible thinking that creative solutions require. Here are three types of problem solving mind maps you can use to facilitate the brainstorming process.

4. Mental maps

A mental map helps you get your thoughts about what might be causing a workplace issue out of your head and onto a shared digital space.

Because mental maps mirror the way our brains take in and analyze new information, using them to describe your theories visually will help you and your team work through and test those thought models.

5. Idea maps

Idea maps let you take advantage of a wide assortment of colors and images to lay down and organize your scattered thought process. Idea maps are ideal brainstorming tools because they allow you to present and explore ideas about the best way to solve a problem collaboratively, and with a shared sense of enthusiasm for outside-the-box thinking.

6. Concept maps

Concept maps are one of the best ways to shape your thoughts around a potential solution because they let you create interlinked, visual representations of intricate concepts.

By laying out your suggested problem-solving process digitally – and using lines to form and define relationship connections – your group will be able to see how each piece of the solution puzzle connects with another.

Problem solving software solutions

Problem solving software is the best way to take advantage of multiple problem solving tools in one platform. While some software programs are geared toward specific industries or processes – like manufacturing or customer relationship management, for example – others, like MindManager , are purpose-built to work across multiple trades, departments, and teams.

Here are three problem-solving software examples.

7. Layered process audit software

Layered process audits (LPAs) help companies oversee production processes and keep an eye on the cost and quality of the goods they create. Dedicated LPA software makes problem solving easier for manufacturers because it helps them see where costly leaks are occurring and allows all levels of management to get involved in repairing those leaks.

8. Charting software

Charting software comes in all shapes and sizes to fit a variety of business sectors. Pareto charts, for example, combine bar charts with line graphs so companies can compare different problems or contributing factors to determine their frequency, cost, and significance. Charting software is often used in marketing, where a variety of bar charts and X-Y axis diagrams make it possible to display and examine competitor profiles, customer segmentation, and sales trends.

9. MindManager

No matter where you work, or what your problem-solving role looks like, MindManager is a problem solving software that will make your team more productive in figuring out why a process, plan, or project isn’t working the way it should.

Once you know why an obstruction, shortfall, or difficulty exists, you can use MindManager’s wide range of brainstorming and problem mapping diagrams to:

• Find the most promising way to correct the situation
• Activate your chosen solution, and
• Conduct regular checks to make sure your repair work is sustainable

MindManager is the ultimate problem solving software.

Not only is it versatile enough to use as your go-to system for puzzling out all types of workplace problems, MindManager’s built-in forecasting tools, timeline charts, and warning indicators let you plan, implement, and monitor your solutions.

By allowing your group to work together more effectively to break down problems, uncover solutions, and rebuild processes and workflows, MindManager’s versatile collection of problem solving tools will help make everyone on your team a more efficient problem solver.

Download a free trial today to get started!

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Article • 7 min read

A Powerful Approach to Note-Taking

By the Mind Tools Content Team

Have you ever studied a subject or brainstormed an idea, only to find yourself with pages of information, but no clear view of how it fits together?

This is where Mind Mapping (also known as Mind Mapping, Concept Mapping, Spray Diagrams, and Spider Diagrams) can help.

Mind Mapping is a useful technique that supports learning, improves information recording, shows how different facts and ideas are related, and enhances creative problem solving. Read on to find out more.

What Are Mind Maps?

Mind Maps were popularized by author and consultant, Tony Buzan. They use a two-dimensional structure, instead of the list format conventionally used to take notes. This makes information easier to remember, as it's held in a format that our minds find easy to recall and quick to review.

A good Mind Map shows the "shape" of the subject, the relative importance of individual points, and the ways in which facts relate to one another. Research shows that this is of particular benefit when dealing with complex information, such as during business planning and strategy development .

Mind Maps are more compact than conventional notes, and often take up just one side of paper. This helps you to make associations and to generate new ideas . You can also add new information easily, even to a Mind Map that you've already drawn.

Mind Mapping can also help you to break down large projects or topics into manageable chunks, so that you can plan effectively without getting overwhelmed and without forgetting something important.

What Can I Use Mind Maps For?

Mind Maps are useful for:

Brainstorming – individually, and as a group.

• Summarizing information.
• Taking notes.
• Consolidating information from different sources.
• Thinking through complex problems.
• Presenting information clearly.
• Studying and memorizing information.

Mind Maps are also good for refreshing information in your mind. When you commit the shape and structure of a Mind Map to memory, you can often get the cues you need to remember the information it contains just by glancing quickly at the Map. Studies have shown that this makes them highly valuable when you're learning a language, for example.

You can really get inventive with Mind Maps, so they are great for boosting creativity, too. When you include colors, images or drawings, they can even resemble a work of art!

How to Draw a Basic Mind Map

To draw a Mind Map, follow these five steps:

Step 1 . Write the title of the subject or project that you're exploring in the center of a page and draw a circle around it, as shown in figure 1, below.

(Our simple example shows a Mind Map of the actions needed to deliver a successful presentation.)

Step 2 . Draw lines out from this circle as you think of subheadings of the topic or important facts or tasks that relate to your subject. Label these lines with your subheadings. (See figure 2, below.)

Step 3 . Dive deeper into the subject to uncover the next level of information (related sub-topics, tasks or facts, for example). Then, link these to the relevant subheadings. (See figure 3, below.)

Step 4 . Repeat the process for the next level of facts, tasks and ideas. Draw lines out from the appropriate headings and label them, as shown in figure 4, below.

Step 5 . As you discover new information or think of additional tasks, add them to your Mind Map in the appropriate places.

A complete Mind Map may have main topic lines radiating in all directions from the center, with sub-topics forking off these like branches and twigs from the trunk of a tree. You don't need to worry about the structure you produce – this will evolve of its own accord.

While drawing Mind Maps by hand is appropriate in many cases, software tools and apps like Mindmeister , and MindGenius , can improve the process by helping you to produce high-quality Mind Maps, which you can then easily edit or redraft.

How to Use Mind Maps Effectively

Once you understand how to take notes in the Mind Map format, you can develop your own conventions for taking them further. The following suggestions can help you to get the most from your Mind Maps:

• Use Single Words or Uncomplicated Phrases – Keep things simple. In Mind Maps, single strong words and short, meaningful phrases can convey the same meaning more potently. Excess words just clutter a Mind Map.
• Print Words – They will be easier to read than joined-up or indistinct writing.
• Use Color to Separate Different Ideas – Color can help to show the organization of the subject. It can also make your Mind Map a more appealing document, and help you to visualize the different sections of your Mind Map for future recall.
• Use Symbols and Images – Pictures can help you to remember information more effectively than words, so use symbols or pictures that mean something to you, use it. (You can use photo libraries like iStock to source images inexpensively.)
• Using Cross-Linkages – Information in one part of a Mind Map may relate to another part, so draw lines to show these cross-linkages. This will help you to see how one part of the subject affects another.

Visual Example

Click on the down arrow on the right-hand side below to download a PDF of this great example of a Mind Map with high visual impact:

Mind Mapping is a powerful note-taking method. Mind Maps not only highlight important facts, but also show the overall structure of a subject and the relative importance of individual parts of it.

They are great when you need to think creatively, and can help you to make new connections between ideas. This is useful when you have problems to solve.

To use Mind Maps effectively, it's best to print your words, to use different colors (to add visual impact), and to incorporate symbols and images to spur creative thinking.

If you do any form of research or note taking, try experimenting with Mind Maps. You'll love using them!

Buran, A. (2015). 'Mind Mapping Technique in Language Learning,' Social and Behavioral Sciences , 206, 215-218. Available here .

Buzan, T., and Buzan, B. (1996). The Mind Map Book: How to Use Radiant Thinking to Maximize Your Brains Untapped Potential . New York: Plume.

Somers, M., Passerini, K., Parhankangas, A., and Casal, J. (2014). 'Using Mind Maps to Study How Business School Students and Faculty Organize and Apply General Business Knowledge,' The International Journal of Management Education , 12(1), 1-13. Available here .

TRADEMARK INFORMATION

"Mind Map" is a trademark of the Buzan Organization (see www.tonybuzan.com ) and used here with permission. We have no association with this organization.

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• Mind Mapping - Creative Problem Solving and Creative Thinking Techniques

Learn about mind mapping, a creative problem solving technique that can help you brainstorm ideas for projects and topics, and more.

Mind mapping is a powerful creative problem solving and creative thinking technique that can help you unlock your potential and find innovative solutions. It is a visual tool that allows you to structure and organize information, ideas, and thoughts in a creative and productive way. By mapping out your ideas and connecting them in a logical fashion, it can help you make sense of complex problems and identify new pathways for problem-solving. Mind mapping can also help you to generate new ideas, explore different perspectives, and make connections between related concepts.

With its versatile applications, this technique can be used for everything from brainstorming new ideas to planning projects and achieving goals. Whether you are looking to enhance your creative problem solving skills or simply seeking to expand your creative thinking abilities, mind mapping can be an effective tool for achieving these objectives. Mind mapping is an effective creative problem-solving technique that can help you brainstorm ideas and organize information. It provides a framework for problem-solving and decision-making, and can be used in a variety of contexts such as business, education, and personal growth. Mind mapping involves starting with an idea and then brainstorming, organizing the information, and visualizing the connections between the ideas.

There are several types of mind maps, including radial, hierarchical, or radial with clusters. Radial mind maps are organized around a central idea with the branches radiating outward. Hierarchical mind maps are organized with the central idea at the top and branches radiating down below. Radial with clusters mind maps are organized around a central idea with multiple clusters radiating out from that central idea. The process of creating a mind map involves several steps.

First, start with an idea or question and then brainstorm related words or concepts. Then, organize the information by connecting the related ideas with lines. Finally, visualize the connections between the ideas to create a mind map. Mind mapping can be used to solve problems or make decisions.

Challenges Associated with Mind Mapping

One of the primary challenges associated with mind mapping is the amount of time it can take. Depending on the complexity of the problem or project, it can take a significant amount of time to brainstorm and come up with an effective map. Additionally, it can be difficult to organize the information in a logical way, as there are often multiple paths that can be taken and multiple ideas that can be explored. In order to make the most of mind mapping, it is important to be patient and take the necessary time to explore all possibilities. It is also important to think critically about the structure of the map and how different ideas are connected.

Best Practices for Using Mind Maps

Images, symbols, and other visual elements can be used to make the mind map more visually appealing and easier to understand. Using visuals also helps to make information easier to remember, as it helps to create a more vivid mental picture of the information. It is also important to create an outline prior to beginning the mind mapping process. This will help you structure your thoughts and organize the information more easily.

Additionally, it will help you stay focused on the task at hand and ensure that all relevant information is included in the mind map. Finally, it is important to be creative when creating a mind map. Try different colors and shapes, as well as different ways of representing information. Doing so will help you make your mind map stand out and make it easier for others to understand.

Creating a Mind Map

This could be a project, topic, or problem you want to explore. Once you have your idea, you can start brainstorming. Brainstorming involves coming up with as many related ideas as possible. This is where you can get creative and think outside the box.

After brainstorming, it's time to organize the information. This involves grouping related ideas together and creating categories. This will help make the mind map easier to understand and navigate. Once your information is organized, you can start visualizing the connections between ideas.

Types of Mind Maps

It is an effective tool for organizing information, as well as providing a framework for problem-solving and decision-making. There are several types of mind maps that can be used to improve your creativity, productivity, and problem-solving skills. The most common type of mind map is the radial mind map. This type of mind map has a central topic or idea from which branches radiate outward. Each branch represents a related topic, idea, or concept.

This type of mind map can be used to organize information or to brainstorm ideas for a project. Hierarchical mind maps are similar to radial mind maps, but instead of having branches radiating outward, they have branches that move inwards towards the central topic. This type of mind map can be used to organize information in a hierarchical manner and to brainstorm ideas for a project. Radial with clusters mind maps are a combination of radial and hierarchical mind maps. This type of mind map has clusters of topics or ideas radiating outward from the central topic. Each cluster has its own branches that move outward or inward towards the central topic.

Benefits of Mind Mapping

Additionally, by breaking down problems into smaller, more manageable parts, mind mapping can help to reveal potential solutions that may not have been apparent before. Mind mapping also helps to improve productivity. By providing a clear structure for organizing information, it reduces the amount of time spent searching for information or reworking ideas. This can free up time that can be used on other tasks or projects. Additionally, since the process is visual, it can be easier to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Finally, mind mapping can help with problem-solving skills.

By providing a framework for breaking down and analyzing problems, it can help individuals to identify potential solutions and make informed decisions. Additionally, by allowing individuals to visualize their ideas, it encourages them to think outside of the box and explore new possibilities. In conclusion, mind mapping is an effective tool for creative problem solving and creative thinking techniques. Through its ability to improve creativity, productivity, and problem-solving skills, it can help individuals to achieve success in their projects and goals. Mind mapping is an effective tool for problem-solving and decision-making because it provides a visual representation of ideas and concepts which can help to uncover meaningful relationships and patterns. It is also an effective way to brainstorm and organize information, and can be used to improve creativity, productivity, and problem-solving skills.

Mind mapping can be used to develop new ideas, create strategies, and solve problems more efficiently. There are various types of mind maps and techniques that can be used to create them, each with its own benefits and challenges. The best practices for using mind maps include keeping the map organized, clear, and easy to understand. By following these best practices, mind maps can be used as a powerful tool for creative problem solving and creative thinking.

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Mind mapping techniques for creative problem solving.

Tony Buzan (2 June 1942 – 13 April 2019) was a British writer, researcher and educational consultant. He developed a techniques called mind mapping and mnemonic systems, and coined the terms mental literacy and radiant thinking. He set down his ideas in a series of books: Speed Reading (1971), Use Your Head (1974), Use Your Perfect Memory (1991), The Mind Map Book (1993), Mind Maps for Business (2010), He has since authored or co-authored over 100 books that have appeared in 30 languages. As a psychologist, Tony Buzan wrote on subjects relating to the brain, “genius quotient (GQ)”, spiritual intelligence, memory, creativity and speed reading. In 2006 he launched his own software program to support mind mapping called iMindMap.

Mind Mapping techniques were first introduced by Tony Buzan in his book ‘Use your Head’ (1974). Now there are many forms of mapping, including computer-based tools to support mapping.

3. Description

A Mind Map is a graphic technique for representing ideas and concepts, using words, images, symbols and color. A mind map is basically a diagram that connects information around a central subject. It is often created around the main idea or focus drawn as an image in the center of a blank page. The main themes radiate from the central image as branches, which comprise a key images or key words. Topics of lesser importance are represented as connected ‘twigs’, which show relationships among pieces of the whole. Mind Map is a visual thinking tool that helps structuring information, solving problems, making decisions, recall and generate new ideas. To make a mind map, one starts in the centre of the page with the main idea, and works outward in all directions, producing a growing and organized structure composed of key words and key images.

4. Main functions

Mind mapping can be used for all of the following: 1. Brainstorming, generating ideas, problem solving. 2. Strategic management thinking, project planning, personal goal setting, organizing and presenting information efficiently 3. Researching and consolidating information from multiple sources 4. Studying and memorization, note taking, learning languages. 5. Enhancing creativity and imaginative thinking.

5. Methodological and theoretical grounds

The concept is based on patterns found in nature and research on how the brain works. Whereas a computer works in a linear fashion, the brain works associatively as well as linearly. It is also a very intuitive way to organize your thoughts, since mind maps mimic the way our brains think—bouncing ideas of each other, rather than thinking linearly. Mind maps link and group concepts together through natural associations. This helps generate more ideas, find deeper meaning in your subject, and also prompt you to fill in more or find what you are missing. Because of the large amount of association involved, they can be very creative, tending to generate new ideas and associations that have not been thought of before. Association plays a dominant role in nearly every mental function. The mind forms associations almost instantaneously, and “mapping” allows you to write your ideas quicker than expressing them using only words or phrases. In contrast to brainstorming, where random and ‘off-the-wall’ ideas are encouraged, concept mapping delivers a more structured linking of ideas. A mind map can at once give you an overview of a large subject while also holding large amounts of information. Mind Maps use letters and numbers and they also use color and image, which means that they engage the left and the right sides of the brain. This is why you can increase your thinking power synergistically when you use Mind Maps. Each side of the brain simultaneously feeds off and strengthens the other in a manner, which provides limitless creative potential. Mind Mapping is a tool that combines the ‘left brain’ skills of logic, words and symbols with the ‘right brain’ skills of pattern, colour and shape. By presenting your thoughts and perceptions in a spatial manner and by using colour and pictures, a better overview is gained and new connections can be made visible. It is need to start with the basic problem as the centre, and generate associations and ideas from it in order to arrive at a large number of different possible approaches.

6. Rules and recommendations

1. Use blank unlined paper – turned on side to ‘landscape’ mode. 2. Use keywords the ones that reflect your main ideas or examples. They exercise your analytical “left brain” and help you find the essence of your subject. 3. Using just one key word per line gives you the freedom to discover the maximum amount of creative associations for your key word. a) always look for opportunities to shorten it to a single word or figure – your mind map will be much more effective that way; b) print, using lower case, for clarity and speed. 4. Work quickly to keep the flow of ideas moving. 5. The branches should be organic and free flowing, instead of being structured and rigid. 6. Vary the thickness and length of the lines, text size, color and alignment. Make the branches curve and flow. Every little bit helps engaging your brain. 7. Connect all words or phrases or lists with lines (like rays out from the sun or branches from a tree) to the centre or to other ‘branches’. 8. Draw lines or arrows between ideas that link with one another or go together. 9. Be as visual as you can. It is important to use colors, images drawings and symbols when creating mind maps to further stimulate both memory and imagination. a) the images make the mind map more interesting and more memorable. In addition, pictures generate far more associations than words do. b) use colors throughout. Adding colors stimulates right-brain thinking; that is, it stimulates creativity and imagination. 10. Consider using colour coding, to help group ideas, highlight key words or to indicate importance – i.e. red for most important 11. When you get a new idea, start again with a new line from the centre. 12. Don’t worry about trying to prioritize ideas immediately – this can come afterwards. 13. One branch may also be chosen in order to develop a completely new mind map based on that branch. 14. Treat every item in a map is in effect, as a centre of another map.

Tony Buzan suggests the following guidelines for creating mind maps: 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 lines become thinner as they radiate out from the center. 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 for encoding or grouping. 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 or outlines to embrace your branches.

7. Procedure and steps

Get a plain sheet of paper and turn it so that it is on its landscape side. You are also going to need colored pens or pencils.

1. In the center of the page, draw a picture or image that represents the central concept and main theme of your mind map. 2. Write down a key word, which represents the central idea. Throughout the mind map, you will use just one key word per line. 3. Figure out sub-themes of your main concept and draw anywhere from five to nine thick branches leading out from your central image/key word. Additional perspectives such as implementation factors or further definition of the solutions could go on those lines. Try to find an image and a key word for each. The first level of branches represent the main associations that come from thinking of the central issue. From each main association, you then branch out into sub-associations. 4. Try to think of at least two main points for each sub-theme you created and create branches out to those. 5. Then connect third-level branches from the ends of the sub-branches, and so on. Let your mind work freely by association and have fun. 6. When a mind map is completed, its possible interrelations and possible multiple appearances of issues, and its overall meaning in the context of the problem must be examined.

Group Mind mapping for generate collective creativity

The use of maps to support collective creativity is a more complicate process. A conference room with a whiteboard must be scheduled. In addition, a set of color markers should be obtained. 1. At the beginning of the session, the facilitator explains the basic mind flow process. Drawing brief sketches on the whiteboard will assist in the understanding of connecting, clustering, coding, and mapping the information. 2. Then the facilitator assists in setting up the mind flow exercise for the team. 3. A circle is drawn on the whiteboard and initial responses (key branches) are connected to the center. 4. The team continues to add information to the key branches in greater detail, creating more branches with yet greater detail as shown in the example. 5. Once the mind flow diagram is completed, a final check is performed and the diagram is dated.

8. Advantages

1. Mind mapping improves problem-solving and encourages bigger-picture thinking. 2. Encourages spontaneity and creativity while maintaining a structure for the generated ideas. 3. Mind maps provide an overview of the subject, displays the relationships between ideas and can also capture a large amount of detail. 4. Highlight connections between different lines of thought make it easier to see contradictions, paradoxes and gaps in material and thinking. 5. Mind maps help to break down large concepts and projects into more manageable parts. 6. Group Mind mapping -is a good way to warm up a group, get people thinking, and engage them in the topic at hand. 7. It is a fast and efficient way for teams generate and capture ideas. 8. Participants can put their ideas down in any order, as soon as they pop into your head. They are not constrained by thinking in order.

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Mind Mapping Software Blog

Elevate your thinking and accelerate your results with visual thinking tools

Solve problems faster with these 9 visual thinking techniques

By Chuck Frey

Not surprisingly, visual thinking tools like mind maps and diagrams can help you cut your challenges down to size, achieve clarity and generate high-value solutions to them.

Here are 9 mind maps and diagrams that can help you creatively define and solve your most vexing problems:

Mind mapping software can help, because it acts like a prism, separating a major task or challenge into its component parts and enabling you to see the relationships between them, so you can more effectively develop creative solutions to address it. To subdivide the components of your task or challenge, ask yourself questions that begin with the famous “5 W’s”: who, what, when, where and why.

Fishbone diagram

Fishbone diagrams, also known as cause and effect or Ishikawa diagrams, are useful for determining the root cause of a problem or challenge. They are especially useful during the problem definition segment of brainstorming sessions, where they helps individuals and teams to deconstruct problems and challenges.

Force field analysis

A “force field analysis” is a little-known but powerful creative problem-solving technique that can help you to deconstruct your current challenge into its strengths and weaknesses in – and to focus on those that will help you ensure a successful outcome. Force field analysis gives you a visual way to better understand your challenges and visualize these forces at work, so you can brainstorm ways to minimize your weaknesses, build upon your strengths – or add new positive skills or conditions to better counterbalance your weaknesses.

Deconstruct your challenge into its attributes

One skill you ought to cultivate if you want to be more creative is deconstructing challenges and situations into their elements. In so doing, you will inevitably reveal the bits and pieces that may be turned to creative advantage. A mind map is the perfect medium for breaking bigger elements down into smaller ones – while also revealing the relationships between them.

25 creative lenses for problem solving

To help us solve our biggest challenges, my friend Stephen Shapiro has written a marvelous book called Invisible Solutions. It outlines 25 mental filters or “lenses” that can help us systematically frame our problems, challenges and opportunities and release our best thinking. I’ve created a mind map that lists each of them, along with questions to help you think creatively about them.

Board of directors

Have you ever been stumped by a creative challenge? It seems like your muse has flown away. Your creative well is dry. Maybe you just need to whack yourself upside the head, figuratively speaking. Maybe you just need to look at your challenge from a new, creative perspective. This technique gives you permission to REALLY throw off your creative blinders and create a “board” of remarkable thinkers to help you whack YOUR thinking!

Ultimate SCAMPER map

During the last several decades, one of the most widely used and successful brainstorming techniques has been SCAMPER. Its name is a mnemonic for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify/Magnify/Minify, Put to other uses, Eliminate and Reverse/Rearrange. The reason it is so popular is because it forces you to look at challenges or problems from a variety of creative perspectives. I’ve adapted it into a mind map – with over 200 creative prompts to jump-start your thinking in new directions!

5-step CPS process

A popular perception about creativity is that it’s random and uncontrollable. Terms like “a flash of insight,” “a bolt from the blue” and the iconic “A-ha!” support this notion. Writers and artists speak of a fickle creative “muse” that ebbs and flows unpredictably. A more reliable way to be consistently creative is to adopt a proven process for ideation and creative problem-solving, like this proven 5-step process – which I adapted into a mind map.

Personal problem-solving template

This mind map template contains 8 thought-provoking questions that you can use to help you with personal problem-solving – better defining problems and then brainstorming solutions for them. These questions have a lot of value for personal problem solving. And the mind map format is perfect for divergent thinking.

What problems will you solve?

Armed with this toolkit of visual creative problem-solving techniques, what challenges will you tackle?

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The 10 Best Mind Mapping Software to Help You Organize Your Thoughts and Be More Productive

Mind mapping software  allows you to visualize, organize, and structure your ideas more efficiently.

Have you ever had a brilliant thought but had no access to anything to write it down on, and when you did, the idea was gone?

Sadly, this is a phenomenon that plagues the human mind. Jotting down ideas that you have on a piece of paper can help you to keep those ideas from being lost. Here come mind mapping tools to the rescue.

Importance of Mind Mapping

Imagine trying to map out multiple ideas, especially interrelated ones. Writing them down on a piece of paper wouldn’t be enough.

You would need to thread them together, perhaps interconnecting and linking them to show how your thought process progressed. We call this process mind mapping.

These ideas need to be organized and processed. A mind-mapping strategy can help you develop concepts, structure ideas, and simplify seemingly random or disjointed thoughts into sensible connections.

This will help you visualize the ideas you’d like to explore, from the general sense to the specifically broken-down details and nuances.

Thanks to technological advancements, mind-mapping activities no longer need to involve scribbling and drawing shapes on a piece of paper; instead, software can assist in them.

What is the Best Mind Mapping Software?

Here are the top mind-mapping tools you should consider for digitally organizing your thoughts.

Supported Platforms: Windows, MacOSX, Linux

MindMaster is arguably the most popular mind-mapping tool. It is available across many platforms, including PCs, tablets, smartphones, and the web, in case you do not feel like using an app.

MindMaster is a collaborative tool allowing you to share and streamline ideas and content with your teammates.

It offers versatile features that are great for students, teachers, contractors, project managers, and anyone who needs a way to organize complex groups of ideas.

The app has 12 different map styles (radial, timeline, bubble, sector, circle, fishbone, etc.), hundreds of clip-arts to decorate the mind maps, more than 30 predefined themes, and many other customizable features.

Pricing Plans

• All Platform : $59 / year, $145 lifetime license, $99 for 2-year plan
• Desktop only : $79 / year, $129 lifetime license
• Team/Enterprise: Contact for a quote

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS

iMindQ is a premier mind-mapping software that comes with preset map styles in different main categories such as business, educational, and personal use.

Beyond just mind maps, it has abundant features that can help you to improve productivity , such as WBS charts, concept maps, flow charts, and other diagram types that lay out your thoughts in a comprehensive, understandable, and memorable format.

iMindQ won’t force you to build a map from scratch; it offers 50 free templates to choose from.

• Windows : 15 days free trial, $49 / year, $119 / lifetime license
• Mac : 15 days free trial, $39 / year, $79 / lifetime license

Supported Platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Linux

LucidChart is mapping software for those who want to visualize their ideas more effectively.

The app comes with multiple template types to help you organize thoughts, groups, workplace operations, sales data, process flows, and anything else you could imagine mapping out.

This visual workplace aids mind mapping with data visualization, diagram creation, and collaboration to streamline projects within your internal teams. It is a cloud-based solution that is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

• Basic : $4.95 / month per user
• Pro : $9.95 / month per user
• Team : starting $20 / month, 3 users minimum
• Enterprise : contact sales for a quote

MindMeister

Supported Platforms: Web, iOS, Android, macOS, Windows

MindMeister is a versatile mind mapping software that offers an ample selection of multi-mode mind map generation features that can ease structuring and visualizing your complex ideas.

The users can display their project planning through mind map layouts, flowcharts, data diagrams, and visual objects.

Over 13 million users utilize this award-winning mapper, which will enhance brainstorming, project planning, note-taking, idea sorting, and any other creative task.

XMind is a full mind mapping and brainstorming tool designed to help users generate their ideas easily and visualize them more vividly. It also offers collaboration to ensure everyone is on the same page.

• Basic : Free, 3 mind maps per user
• Personal : $4.99 / month, unlimited mind maps per user
• Pro : $8.25 / month, unlimited mind maps, 1+ users
• Business : $12.49 / month, unlimited mind maps, 1+ users

Supported Platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS

XMind allows you to not only generate mapping layouts but also export them with a transparent background into other tools for the inclusion of mind maps in other projects.

It also allows you to link up specific files that are associated with particular map points.

If you need to find the file, you need to click on the topic it was associated with, and it will take you to the file you seek. The app is available on Windows, Linux, Mac, iOS, and Android devices.

• XMind for Pros : $39.99 / 6 months subscription & $59.99 yearly subscription
• XMind 8 Pro : $129
• Teachers & Students : $59 (Special Discount)
• Goverments & Non-Profits : $64.5 (Special Discount)

Supported Platforms: Web, macOS, Linux, Windows, Android, iOS

Mindomo is a visual mind tool that helps the user to create a mind map or a concept map, as well as the ability to create mapping outlines to form blueprints of your thought process.

This mind mapping app is a fantastic choice for students as it assists in a clear idea layout.

It also helps to develop experience with brainstorming, analysis, idea generation, problem-solving, questioning, synthesizing, and logistical planning. Maps can even be converted into or included in presentations.

• Work & Personal : Free, $5.5 / month per single user (Premium), $13.5 / month per user + guests (Professional), $16.5 / month min 3 users (Team)
• Education : Free, $3 / month per single user (Basic), $4.5 / month per teacher + students (Teacher), $16.5 / month min 2 teachers + 80 students (Classroom & School)

Supported Platforms: Web, Google Chrome Extension

Cacoo is an online drawing app that is designed to create high-quality diagrams. Through this tool, you can generate charts, site maps, wireframes, mind maps, and many other exceptionally useful mind-mapping methods.

It comes with collaborative features so that you can streamline the tasks with a team of people and allows third-party integrations with services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and many others.

The pricing starts at $5 / month per user (minimum 3 users) when paid annually and $6 when paid monthly. Individual users can sign up for Cacoo at $4.95 per month. There’s a free trial for all plans.

MindManager by MindJet

Supported Platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, Android, iOS

MindManager , published by Mindjet, is a mind mapping tool available across various platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and the web.

It is a useful tool for brainstorming, structuring ideas, making presentations, project management, and generating comprehensive flowcharts. Users can create timelines to schedule and organize their tasks more effectively.

• One Time Cost:  $349 perpetual license
• Annual Subscription:  $179 per year per user
• Organization of 5 or more : Request a demo

Supported Platforms: Web, iOS, Android

Coggle is a web-based mind-mapping tool that allows users to share and create mind maps and flowcharts without installing an app.

The goal of the Coggle tool is to simplify brainstorming, planning, taking notes , and structuring ideas while still offering a wide array of editing features.

You can share mind map projects with teammates simply by adding them as collaborators. Once someone is added, they can see edits to the mind map made by any other collaborator in real time.

• Free : 3 private diagrams, unlimited public diagrams, over 1,600 icons
• Awesome : $5.00 per month, unlimited private diagrams, high-res image uploads, and more styling options
• Organization : $8.00 per member per month, bulk export, user & data management, branded diagrams

Supported Platforms: iOS, Web, Android

MindMup is a web-based mind-mapping software that gives you a perfect canvas to visualize your ideas.

MindMup has a clear medium and straightforward interface that easily converts users’ ideas into visual mapping representation without distractions.

MindMup’s goal is to permit you to generate your mind maps at the speed of thought. Every branch off of the central theme of the mind map gets assigned its own color, and the font of any branched-out elements automatically gets reduced, making for less post-creation editing work.

The maps can be shared with other collaborators, and MindMup is free to use. Generated maps can be saved to the cloud and accessed instantly from any device.

• Free : Forever
• Personal Gold : $2.99/month or $25/year.
• Team Gold : $50/year for 10 users or $100/year for 100 users.
• Organizational Gold : $100 per year for all users.

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS

MindGenius is a versatile tool that can help you structure your ideas in bite-size fragments, effectively breaking down your ideas and sharing the mindmap with teammates.

MindGenius comes with six tools for conducting collaboration projects, eliminating the necessity of using multiple apps.

These six tools are Mind Maps, Charts, Resource Management, Categories View, Priority View, and Status View, and they cover a wide range of potential mind-mapping approaches.

• Perpetual : $256, one-time cost with a free subscription to MindGenius online
• Subscription: first year $160, then $56/year onwards with 12 months of free subscription to MindGenius online
• Upgrade to MindGenius 20 (from an earlier version): $80 per year
• MindGenius for Education : $91, perpetual license

Supported Platforms: Web, iOS, Windows

SmartDraw is diagram-drawing software designed for users who need to visually represent their ideas while maintaining a level useful to beginners and experienced professionals.

It comes with hundreds of ready-to-use templates. The maps operate on an intuitive click-and-drop method, where any shape on the map can be altered or dragged to a different part of the map.

If you prefer to operate the keyboard, SmartDraw permits you to achieve your mind mapping needs using just the keyboard.

SmartDraw’s main appeal is that the elements of the maps are logically sorted and the generation can be automated, making it one of the most sophisticated mind-mapping resources for optimal planning.

• Single User : $9.95 per month, billed annually
• Multiple Users : $5.95 per user per month (min 5 users), billed annually
• Enterprise : $2,995 per year

Supported Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

SimpleMind offers an unlimited amount of canvas space for creating mind maps. With this tool, you have the freedom to create as many mind map elements as you want.

You can use many shapes and icons through SimpleMind’s platform to easily manage many tasks in one place.

You can share your collaboration while adding images, photos, voice recordings, and videos associated with the particular map members.

• SimpleMind Free : Limited functionality, just to get started with mind mapping
• SimpleMind Trial : 30-day license with full functionality for Mac and Windows
• SimpleMind Pro Single user : €24.99 for Mac & €39.99 for Mac and Windows
• SimpleMind Pro Family/Team pack : €39.99 for Mac & €75 for Mac and Windows
• SimpleMind Pro 10-user pack : €79.95 for Mac & €159.90 for Mac and Windows

Supported Platforms: Mac, iOS

MindNode is a premium mind mapping tool exclusively available through macOS and iOS. With this tool, you can create mind maps and structure them through easy layouts and organizational procedure flow.

MindNode’s free editor allows you to organize, outline, and collect your ideas. It also imports information from other files and mind-mapping tools and permits the export of ideas to various file types.

The premium version (MindNode Plus) offers additional enhancement features, including visual tags, themes, stickers, focus mode, dark mode, task sharing to Apple Reminders, and even supporter casting to a second screen.

• iOS: $2.49 per month & $19.99 per year
• macOS : $2.49 per month & $19.99 per year
• Trial : 2 weeks free trial with limited functionality

Supported Platforms: MacOS, Windows

Scapple is available in macOS and Windows. If you are looking for flexibility and unlimited mind-mapping possibilities, you may find your ideal tool in Scapple.

Scapple, known for its flexibility and vast customization, allows you to combine ideas and connect the dots without complex rules.

The interface is simple and straightforward, so there are no distractions when using the tool for mind mapping.

You can think-dump a slew of ideas into a rough draft, then draw the necessary connections between the elements.

Elements can be placed anywhere, dragged to anywhere else, stacked, or layered on top of area-specific backgrounds.

• Standard License:  $18
• Educational License:  $14
• Trial : 30-day free trial with full functionality

Supported Platforms: Web

If you have ever looked into free design mediums online, chances are Canva is one of the top choices you have come across. There is a good reason for its fame, as its amazing final results for designs speak for themselves.

Mind mapping through Canva is no different. Canva is intuitive and can be mastered quickly.

This short learning curve makes it more popular than other complex mind-mapping tools, making it a perfect choice for those who are just getting started.

The map can be structured through a wide variety of prebuilt templates or a blank canvas. The elements can be color-coded, connected, and enhanced with images, icons, and illustrations.

When completed, the mind maps can be downloaded, embedded in other projects, or shared with a team of collaborators.

• Free Forever:  1GB storage, 8,000+ free templates
• Canva Pro:  $9.95/user/month, billed yearly
• Canva Enterprise : $30/user/month, billed yearly
• Canva for Education : Free Forever
• Canva for Non-Profit : Free (Must meet the requirements)

Supported Platforms: Android, iOS, Kindle, Web

Padlet is a mind-mapping tool that uses a bulletin board format, which is unique compared to other tools.

The bulletin board can be used to share information in real time with your collaborating parties or teams.

There are even several pre-built templates that you can choose so that you won’t need to make a mindmap from scratch.

The collaborative features include custom permissions, user management, branding, and many others. You can attach files from multiple platforms, and most existing file types are supported.

• Backpack for Schools:  $2000 per school per year (includes 500 teacher and student accounts); custom plans are available
• Briefcase for Businesses: $12 per user per month or $99 per user per year
• Pro for Individuals : $8 a month, unlimited padlets, domain mapping, and more

Supported Platforms: Windows, Linux, Mac

FreeMind is an open-source mind-mapping software that is available for macOS, Windows, and Linux for no cost.

It might not be suitable for beginners because its interface is a bit complex. However, the learning curve is short, so mastering the platform wouldn’t take a long time. Don’t let the tool’s very basic initial appearance fool you.

This is a powerful mind mapping model that may look a bit dated, but dive into its features, and you will find a vast collection of powerful tools to help you construct a mind map that is useful to any of your needs.

Completely free, yay!

Supported Platforms: Web, Android, iOS

The GoConqr app is available for Android, iOS, and your favorite browsers. Its interface is easy to navigate and allows you to brainstorm ideas while collaborating with fellow users.

This is an especially useful tool for students and teachers. GoConqr allows users to create mind maps, quizzes, flashcards, notes, and calendars.

The content can be organized and curated into bundles and shared with others. This makes it conducive to testing knowledge and enhancing learning potential for anyone who engages with it.

Another free mind mapping software; enjoy!

Supported Platforms: Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

TheBrain uses visual aids to map out the relationships between ideas. The brain attempts to map the mind in the same way our brain does.

It creates complex maps of connections, but ones that are intuitive to the mind of the organizer and creator.

Unlike one’s brain, however, TheBrain allows any element to be quickly found and can be appended with supplemental additives. It is available on the web and on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.

• TheBrain Pro License : $219 one-time fee (Perpetual License)
• TheBrain Pro Combo : $299 the first year, then renew at $159 / year (License + Service)
• TheBrain Pro Service : $16 / month or $15 / month, billed at $180 / year

Which Mind Mapping App Should I Use?

Mind mapping is indeed a powerful tool to preserve and expand upon your ideas.

These apps will help you save and secure your thoughts so that you can refer back to them to help you with your project, process, or organization.

Many people are visual learners, and the apps outlined above allow for a high degree of enhanced visualization for a more constructed thought structure.

What mind-mapping tools have you used? Did we miss your favorite one? Share your ideas in the comments below!

The post The 10 Best Mind Mapping Software to Help You Organize Your Thoughts and Be More Productive appeared first on Gotechtor .

Creativity and the Brain: How to Be a Creative Thinker

What do we know from research on brain activity involved in creative thought.

Posted April 30, 2024 | Reviewed by Michelle Quirk

• The book "The Creative Act" argues that creativity is a skill we can all use daily.
• Creativity is complex and involves multiple brain regions.
• Research shows that there are several ways to improve our creative thinking.

This post is part 2 of a series.

In my previous post, I wrote that, after being inspired by Rick Rubin’s book, The Creative Act: A Way of Being, I decided to find out what is going on in the human brain that results in creativity. It turned out to be a very complex and complicated subject. That is mainly because it is difficult to clearly define creativity, and there are many different kinds of creative processes, such as visual art, music, creative thinking , etc.

Coming from the field of cognitive processes, I decided that I would concentrate on research related to brain activity involved in creative thought processes. Most of the time, cognitive creativity involves testing the person’s divergent thinking (generating possible solutions to the problem) or convergent thinking (finding a single, correct solution to the problem).

The review of research papers indicated that creative thinking (convergent and divergent thinking) requires the coordination of multiple brain regions, mainly the executive control network (simply speaking involves planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making ), default mode network (areas of the brain that are activated when we are letting our minds wander at rest), and salience network (a network that is involved in the awareness of the feelings associated with rewards). But, obviously, other parts of the brain are also involved, and this depends on the specific goal/outcome that we want to achieve.

I also promised my readers that I would try to find answers to the question of how to be a creative thinker. There are many suggestions on the internet, but let’s see what the research says.

You can learn how to meditate and practice it daily.

It may come as a surprise to many people, but the majority of the research papers in that area point to the daily practice of meditation as a way to improve creative thinking. It is not a surprise to me because I am a believer in meditation and do it daily. I also encourage all my patients to try to do it daily.

In a Chinese study (Ding, X. et al. 2014), 40 Chinese undergraduate students were assigned to three groups, a meditation group (30 minutes daily for 7 days), a relaxation training group, and a control group. Creativity performance was assessed by the Torrance Test of Creative Thinking (TTCT). The results indicated that the subjects in the meditation group improved their creativity performance on the divergent thinking tasks.

Research studies on meditation also indicate that it helps improve attention/ concentration skills and emotional regulation and reduces stress and anxiety , so it looks like a good daily habit to start.

You can read aloud and do arithmetic calculations.

In a Taiwan study (Lin, WL. et al. 2018), 50 junior high students were divided into a training group or a control group. The training group was reading aloud and performing arithmetic calculations for 20 sessions. The control group played the game Tetris (a puzzle video game). The results indicated that the participants in the training group outperformed the control group in thinking and creative abilities.

You can do neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is a computer-guided, noninvasive brain-function training based on electroencephalography (EEG) feedback. Neurofeedback is also called neurotherapy, neurobiofeedback, or EEG biofeedback, and it helps control involuntary processes such as muscle tension and heart rate. Usually, the person is responding to a computer display of her/his own electrical activity of the brain, but it may also simply be a sound stimulation. The most important factor is that neurofeedback focuses on helping a person train himself/herself to regulate brain functions.

In an Italian study (Agnoli, S. et al. 2018), 80 female students from the University of Bologna got three neurofeedback training sessions. The researchers also measured the participants’ lifetime creative achievement by using the Creative Activity and Accomplishment Checklist. The results were measured with the divergent thinking tasks (producing original and effective ideas). The results indicated an increase in both originality and fluency. The increase was particularly evident in participants with an initial low creative achievement level.

This is good news for people who believe that they are not that creative. You may get better with neurofeedback training sessions. Artists and athletes do this nowadays to enhance their performance.

You can do overinclusive thinking training.

Overinclusive thinking can be described as increased generalization and/or considering concepts that most people consider unrelated to certain categories, which provides an increased number of options. In a Taiwan study (Chiu, F.C. 2015), the researcher examined the effect of overinclusive thinking on creativity. Four experiments were designed, and the subjects were undergraduate students who were randomly assigned to an overinclusive thinking training group or a control group. The training group did better on the overinclusive thinking that is related to creativity. The fluency and originality performance were higher than in the control group and the insight problem-solving was also better than in the control group.

So, if you would like to be a creative thinker, you can try some of the ideas described above. Good luck on the road to creativity!

Rick Rubin. The Creative Act: A Way of Being . Penguin Press, NY 2023.

Ding, X. et al. “Improving creativity performance by short-term meditation” Behavioral and Brain Functions. Vol. 10, 2014.

Lin, WL. et al. “ Improving junior high students’ thinking and creative abilities with an executive function training program” Thinking Skills and Creativity . Vol. 29, Sept. 2018.

Agnoli, S. et al. “Enhancing creative cognition with a rapid right-parietal neurofeedback procedure.” Neuropsychologia, Vol. 118, Part A Sept. 2018.

Chiu, F.C. “ Improving your creative potential without awareness: Overinclusive thinking training.” Thinking Skills and Creativity . Vol 15. March 2015.

Barbara Koltuska-Haskin, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist in Albuquerque, New Mexico and the author of How My Brain Works.

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