In reply to this comment, I would say my definition of mind-mapping is found in the book, 'The Mind Map Book' by Tony Buzan. There are four main functions to his methods; mnemonic, analytic, creative, and conversational. These are the thoughts that enter your mind while listening to a lecture or reading. So the mind-map helps us organize these in a form of note taking that uses symbols, linearity, and analysis. There are different layouts and techniques. I have tried several but so far I like the center 'bubble' in the middle and then my thoughts or idea branches (some term it idea map) coming out from that in a clock-wise fashion. When I first began using mind-mapping, it was mostly words but now I use a lot of color and pictures. The best way to use it is if you can review it again in the future. After a 1-hour learning period, you should ideally review your mind map after 30 min, then after a day, then after a week, and so on. It doesn't matter if others don't understand it, the point is, you will remember for years to come the things you have written down. I now have certain 'symbols' that I know mean certain things which enables me to take notes very fast. As with everything though, I need to improve on my skill. So let's keep sharing![DOUBLEPOST=1399001153][/DOUBLEPOST]I thought I would attach a few links that show the different diagrams to mind-mapping available. Also, I did not mention above that many writers are now using mind mapping to generate their plot lines. And I have also found it very effective with doing research on a subject, mind-mapping it, then taking that research with me to an open-discussion lecture. The mind map sits in your lap and you can easily reference what you have researched so as to contribute to the discussion. The titles on the picture explain what they are trying to map. One of them is from the Tony Buzan book I quoted earlier. I have seen other formats as well. Some have even broken the format and done individual squares as they get used to that form of note-taking. Although according to the traditional mind-mapping theories this is not as effective because the ideas need to be linked in some way. The more colors one uses the better because both sides of the brain are stimulated for learning and retaining.
