Appendices Appendix 1. How to make mind map

http://edutechwiki.unige.ch/en/Mind_map

Mind mapping (or concept mapping) involves writing down a central idea and thinking up new and related ideas which radiate out from the centre. By focusing on key ideas written down in your own words, and then looking for branches out and connections between the ideas, you are mapping knowledge in a manner which will help you understand and remember new information.

Use lines, colours, arrows, branches or some other way of showing connections between the ideas generated on your mind map. These relationships may be important in you understanding new information or in constructing a structured essay plan. By personalising the map with your own symbols and designs you will be constructing visual and meaningful relationships between ideas which will assist in your recall and understanding.

Mind Maps are also useful for:

- Summarising information.

- Consolidating information from different research sources.

- Thinking through complex problems.

Presenting information in a format that shows the overall structure of your subject.

What's more, they are very quick to review as you can often refresh information in your mind just by glancing at one. In the same way, they can be effective mnemonics: Remembering the shape and structure of a Mind Map can give you the cues you need to remember the information within it. As such, they engage much more of your brain in the process of assimilating and connecting facts, compared with conventional notes.

Mind map guidelines

These are the foundation structures of a Mind Map, although these are open to free interpretation by the individual:

- Start in the centre with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colours.

- Use images, symbols, codes and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.

- Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.

- Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.

- 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 centre.

- Make the lines the same length as the word/image.

- Use colours – your own code – throughout the Mind Map.

- Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.

- Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.

- Keep the Mind Map clear by using Radiant hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.

Improving your Mind Maps

Your Mind Maps are your own property: once you understand how to make notes in the Mind Map format, you can develop your own conventions to take them further. To improve your mind maps, remember to explore your own methods, experimenting while remembering what makes mind maps work. The following suggestions may help to increase their effectiveness:

- Use single words or simple phrases for information: Most words in normal writing are padding, as they ensure that facts are conveyed in the correct context, and in a format that is pleasant to read. In your own Mind Maps, single strong words and meaningful phrases can convey the same meaning more potently. Excess words just clutter the Mind Map.

- Print words: Joined up or indistinct writing can be more difficult to read.

- Use color to separate different ideas: This will help you to separate ideas where necessary. It also helps you to visualise of the Mind Map for recall. Color also helps to show the organisation of the subject.

- Use symbols and images: Where a symbol or picture means something to you, use it. Pictures can help you to remember information more effectively than words.

- Using cross-linkages: Information in one part of the Mind Map may relate to another part. Here you can draw in lines to show the cross-linkages. This helps you to see how one part of the subject affects another.

-Use computer software: If you wish to have some help with your mind maps, or wish to do mind maps within a computing environment, there are several software programs available for your computer. You can usually print your mind maps out from the software programs for later visual reference. Software programs are a great resource for learning how to do proper mind mapping technique, and they cut down on the materials needed.

Key points:

Mindmapping is an extremely effective method of taking notes. Mind Maps show not only facts, but also the overall structure of a subject and the relative importance of individual parts of it. They help you to associate ideas and make connections that might not otherwise make.

If you do any form of research or note taking, try experimenting with Mind Maps. You will find them surprisingly effective!