About the Mind Map Template:

• The Mind Map Template is a well-organized, graphic representation of your next brainstorm. Ideal for visual learners, this method lacks the rigid structure of other ideation techniques, focusing instead on the free association of concepts and ideas, connecting creative and logical thinking.

What is a mind map?

• A mind map is a diagram designed to organize information in a visual hierarchy. It’s often used to see connections between concepts or ideas. Think of it as a tree. The center of your mind map — or its trunk — is the subject, question, or problem you’re trying to solve. Once you’ve established your trunk, your brainstorm begins. As your team jots down all their ideas, topics, and subtopics, the branches of your mind map will start to form.

1. Start with the central concept

The center of your mind map (or trunk) is the specific question or idea central to getting to the bottom of your topic or solving your problem. Type it in the center of the Mind Map Template.

2. Brainstorm

Write down the first idea that comes to mind when thinking about the main concept. You can use images, words, or short phrases. This is a quick exercise meant to encourage free thinking.

3. Extend your mind map

Write down ideas as branches that extend from the center of your mind map. Once you’re ready to move or structure ideas, hold down Ctrl or Cmd and click on concepts to drag and rearrange the branches.

4. Develop branches

Once you have your first set of branches mapped out, choose one branch and ask yourselves: Where else can we take this? What is a related concept or problem? Then, draw a branch extending from the first branch and put your second idea at the end.

5. Continue until a stop

Repeat the process until you feel like you’re at a good stopping point.

Try changing the color and orientation of your mind map, or introducing things like sticky notes, images, or emojis.