Mind maps the ultimate thinking tool

I first heard about mind maps in 2008 from one of my fellow students while doing my MBA. During 2010 while doing my final year I had difficulty with my studies. I struggled to memorize the overload of study material and had difficulty recalling information during my tests and exams. It was during this time when I heard again about mind maps. I reluctantly tried mind maps and wow what a revolution it has been to me every since. I passed my remaining subjects with ease and have since used mind maps every day of my life.

I decided to spread the good news about mind maps. My wife, Vanessa, had the same challenges I had with her studies. Exams were super hard and studying was a nigntmare. Since Vanessa has been using mind maps her exams results exploded to highs never seen before. Her notes are colourful and vibrant. Her memory and recall information increased exponentially.

Below is an example of her mind maps.

Our nephew Jaden barely passed his subjects in school and was an average student up until grade 9. He is now grade 11 and here is Jaden’s own words how mind maps helped him. “Well after uncle Nolan told me about mind maps, I started implementing that in my school work… I suddenly went from top 100 to top 3 in 1 term….mind maps help me summarise a bombarded amount of information…I also use it while the teacher is talking as extra notes lol. I also combine my mindmaps with color. This makes it more easier to remember the info…..it’s amazing how a slight change in a study method made me go from a 40% average to an 87% average in only 1 term😱. I highly recommended the use of mind maps to those aiming to achieve..or to anyone as a matter of fact lol😁😁”

Here is Jaden’s mind map.

What is a mind map?

It is the ultimate learning and thinking tool. It helps to map your thoughts and get information out of your brain but into a form recognisable to the brain. It helps you to think clearly and maps how the brain sees and creates connections. It allows radiant thinking where each concept or idea can be seen in relation to all concepts. I’ve even used a mind map in preparation in writing this blog.

Mind maps can be seen everywhere in nature including your brain neurons, trees and their roots, thunderstorms and our circuvascular system.

Why does a mind map work and how is its structure?

As can be seen in the pictures the mind map is very visual. You can immediately see the big picture. You can see relationships between key concepts and ideas clearly. You can also see the relative importance of each idea in relation to the other ideas and the main theme. Normal linear note taking only uses words, but mind maps uses all cortical skills such as word, images, logic, numbers, rhythm, colour and spacial awareness.

For what is mind maps useful?

I use mind maps for everything. At work, preparing for presentations and speeches. For planning and organising. And summarizing books and articles.

I’ve started to use mind maps in my studies. Like Jaden said earlier it is great for memory. Recalling the information is super easy because you can see everything in your mind’s eye. I use it to brainstorm to get ideas out of my head onto paper. It’s a great decision making tool because all information is visible in a summarised format. Revision is exponentially faster because mind maps are super fast to read because you can only use key words or phrases in stead of full sentences.

Mind maps are excellent for creativity because you see all the information and their relationships with each other. You can easily add new information to an existing mind map because there are no linear limitations. The brain can make new and exciting connections with ease. Giving a speech from a mind map is easy because you can easily see the flow on the speech. While giving presentations your brain is clear, relaxed and alive.

As can be seen on the pictures mind maps can be hand drawn. But I do most of my mind maps on my iPhone or iPad.

Who can use mind maps?

I recommend mind maps to every one. It can be used by students, business people and doctors.

The benefits have been proven by millions of people around the world of which Vanessa, Jaden and I are truely grateful to Tony Buzan for inventing mind maps. Tony Buzan was right when he said mind maps will unlock your creativity, boost your memory and change your life.

I know mind maps are now taught in our schools which is great. Please share your of your children’s experience with me if you use mind maps and how it has benefitted you.

All the best on your mind map journey.