Mind Map
Quickly outline your thoughts. Click a node to add a child.
How to use this mind map tool
Click anywhere on the canvas to drop your central topic. Click any existing node to add a child. Drag nodes to reposition. Right-click to delete. Your map saves automatically in your browser, so it's still there when you come back.
What is a mind map?
A mind map is a visual diagram with a single central idea at the centre and branches radiating outward to related concepts. It's the simplest possible structure for non-linear thinking — perfect when you have a topic but don't yet know where to begin.
The technique was popularised by Tony Buzan in the 1970s but has older roots: the third-century philosopher Porphyry diagrammed Aristotle's categories radially, and Leonardo da Vinci's notebooks are full of branching idea webs. The form keeps reappearing because it matches how memory and association actually work — by network, not by list.
How to create a mind map (5 steps)
- Start with the central topic. One word or short phrase. Place it in the centre. Don't worry about defining it yet — that's what the branches are for.
- Add main branches. Three to seven first-level branches works best. These are the major facets of your topic. For an essay, branches might be the main arguments. For a product launch: positioning, audience, channels, timing, budget.
- Add sub-branches. Each main branch gets its own children. Stop when a branch has 2–4 leaves at a comfortable depth — typically 3 levels is enough.
- Connect across branches. Mind maps allow lateral connections. Draw a line between two leaves in different branches when they relate. These cross-links are often where the most original ideas live.
- Reorganise. First drafts are messy. Move nodes, merge duplicates, prune dead branches. The act of reorganising forces clarity.
When to use a mind map
Brainstorming
Mind maps beat lists for brainstorming because the radial structure invites lateral thinking. A list says "next idea". A mind map says "what is this branch missing?" — a question that surfaces gaps a list would hide.
Outlining writing
Before drafting an article, sketch a mind map: central topic, three to five argument branches, evidence under each. The map becomes your outline. Each branch becomes a section.
Studying and revision
Reading a chapter and then mind-mapping it from memory is one of the most effective study techniques. The retrieval effort drives long-term retention; the visual structure makes patterns visible that linear notes obscure.
Project planning
Central node = project goal. Main branches = workstreams. Leaves = tasks. The map becomes a one-glance project view that lists can't match.
Decision making
Central node = decision. Two main branches = options. Leaves under each = pros, cons, costs, risks. The visual symmetry forces you to consider each option fairly.
Mind map vs outline vs concept map
| Mind map | Outline | Concept map | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structure | Radial, single root | Linear, hierarchical | Network, multiple roots |
| Best for | Brainstorming, outlining | Drafting, presenting | Knowledge mapping |
| Strength | Generates ideas | Sequences arguments | Shows relationships |
| Weakness | Can sprawl | Hides lateral links | Cluttered fast |
Use a mind map to find your ideas, then convert it to an outline to order them for writing.
Tips for a better mind map
- One word per node. Phrases close down ideas; single words keep them open.
- Use colour to group. Same-colour branches are conceptually related; the visual grouping does work that words can't.
- Don't edit while you generate. First pass: capture. Second pass: prune. Mixing them kills both.
- Stop at 3 levels of depth. Beyond that, the map becomes hard to read and you're really making an outline — switch tools.
- Keep it. Old mind maps are a gold mine for future writing. Save them.
More tools for writers
- Word Counter — measure your draft against a target.
- Pomodoro Timer — 25-minute focus sessions for the actual writing.
- Writing blog — guides on outlining, structure, and editing.
Frequently asked questions
Is a mind map the same as a flowchart?
No. A flowchart shows a sequence of decisions or steps with directional arrows. A mind map shows associations radiating from a central topic with no implied order. Use a flowchart for processes, a mind map for ideas.
How many branches should a mind map have?
Three to seven main branches at the top level. Beyond seven, the human eye can't track them as a group — split into sub-maps if you have more major themes.
Can I export the mind map?
Yes — use the Export button to download a PNG, SVG, or JSON. JSON is editable in any text editor and can be imported back later.
Does the mind map save automatically?
Every change is saved to your browser's local storage. Reload the page and your map is still there. Clear browser data and it's gone, so export important maps.
Is the mind map collaborative?
Not yet — it's a single-user tool right now. Real-time collaborative mind mapping is on our roadmap; if you need it sooner, MindMeister and Miro are good alternatives.
What's the difference between a mind map and brainstorming?
Brainstorming is the activity of generating ideas. A mind map is the structure you use to capture them. You can brainstorm without a mind map (sticky notes work too), but mind maps are usually the most efficient capture format for solo brainstorming.
Can I use a mind map to outline a book?
Absolutely — many novelists and non-fiction authors do exactly this. Central node = working title or theme; main branches = chapters or sections; leaves = scenes or arguments. Convert to a linear outline once the structure is stable.