Learning Mind Mapping
What's the best way to learn mindmapping? Is it complicated? Is there a "right way" to do it? I've heard these questions from almost everyone who has seen me using mind maps for presentations, data/information management, project planning, and more.
First, mind mapping isn't difficult, and it's easy to learn. Mind mapping mirrors the way our brains work (radiantly and associatively). If you can scribble, you can mind map, it's that simple. (Some day, when I'm brave, I'll scan some of my first handwritten mind maps and display them on this web site. No one will be embarrassed after they see my first mind maps!)
Second, there are a lot of great resources available to help you learn mind mapping (see the mind mapping learning resources listed at the bottom of this page). If you like to read hard copy books, Tony Buzan (the founder of mind mapping) has written several that are outstanding. If you want to start learning mind mapping right now, there are two ebooks I highly recommend. Both are inexpensive and available for immediate download. Or, if you're ready to dive right in, check out the mind mapping software and grab a free trial copy.
Example Mind Map (created with MindManager X5 Pro)
How to Learn Mind Mapping
Don't be afraid to experiment! I have created hundreds of mind maps using software, pens and paper - even crayons with my daughter. There are certainly guidelines (read Buzan's The Mind Map Book, Memletics concept mapping ebook, or Chuck Frey's Power Tips & Strategies for Mind Mapping Software for ideas). However, don't feel like there is only one right way. The right way is what works best for you!
If you're interested in mind mapping primarily for personal topics, I suggest you pick up a copy of Buzan's Mind Map Book and start there. Devour the book, and plan on rereading chapters a few times (they're not difficult to understand, but they are interesting to read and comprehend). Get started quickly - don't feel like you need to learn mind mapping like an academic discipline before you can begin.
If you're interested in mind mapping primarily for business, I think the best play to start is with Chuck Frey's ebook Power Tips & Strategies for Mind Mapping Software. You can read Chuck's book in a day or two and start putting his ideas into practice immediately. He covers a lot of business-related topics including project management, time management, decision making, to do list, brainstorming - and a lot more. Power Tips is full of great ideas you can implement immediately.
If you'd like to try mind mapping during your next meeting, check out Lifehacker's "A Beginner's Guide to Mind Mapping Meetings" which includes a free PDF template you can download.
Whatever path you choose to learn mind mapping, prepare yourself for the results. If your experience is like mine, you'll find that you're more effective and more relaxed at home and in the office.
Mind Mapping Learning Resources
This list isn't complete - I'm only comfortable recommending resources I've personally used or read and found valuable.
- The Mind Map Book, Tony Buzan. This is the first book I read to learn both the why and how to mind map.
- How to Mind Mind, by Tony Buzan
- Memletics has a great ebook (in PDF format) on concept mapping / mind mapping that is available for immediate download. If you want to start learning mind mapping right now, this is the place to start.
- Power Tips & Strategies for Mind Mapping Software ebook by Chuck Frey. If you want to learn about mind mapping right now, this is the place to start. Available for immediate download, Power Tips & Strategies is loaded with basic and advanced strategies for getting the most out of your mind mapping software. In my opinion, you simply can't go wrong with Chuck's ebook.
- Mindmapping in 8 Easy Steps, Innovation Network
- Other mind mapping books.
- Mind mapping software.