mind map

A mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks or other
items linked to and arranged radially around a central key word or idea. It
is used to generate, visualize, structure and classify ideas, and as an aid in
study, organization, problem solving, and decision making.
It is an image-centered diagram that represents semantic or other connections
between portions of information. By presenting these connections in a
radial, non-linear graphical manner, it encourages a brainstorming
approach to any given organizational task.
The elements are arranged intuitively according to the importance of the
concepts and they are organized into groupings, branches, or areas. The
graphic formulation of the information may aid recall of existing memories
Mind maps have many applications in personal, family, educational, and
business situations, including notetaking, brainstorming, summarizing, revising
and general clarifying of thoughts. For example, one could listen to a
lecture and take down notes using mind maps for the most important points
or keywords. One can also use mind maps as a mnemonic technique or to
sort out a complicated idea. Mind maps are also promoted as a way to collaborate.
Software and technique research have concluded that managers and students
find the techniques of mind mapping to be useful, being better able to retain
information and ideas than by using traditional 'linear' note taking methods.
Mindmaps can be drawn by hand, either as 'rough notes', for example, during
a lecture or meeting, or can be more sophisticated in quality. There are
also a number of software packages available for producing mind maps.

Mind map guidelines
Tony Buzan suggests using the following guidelines for Mind Mapping:
1. Start in the center with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colors.
2. Use images, symbols, and codes throughout your Mind Map.
3. Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.
4. Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.
5. The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central
lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out
from the center.
6. Make the lines the same length as the word/image.
7. Use colors – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.
8. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.
9. Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.
10. Keep the Mind Map clear by using radial hierarchy, numerical order
or outlines to organize your branches.
Learn More:
Mind Map Example
http://www.peterussell.com/mindmaps/mindmap.html
Free Mind Map Software
http://freemind.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Page