What is Mind Mapping?

Looking through my download file I saw a free program that I had downloaded recently but not yet installed call FreeMind. I vaguely remember that it can be used to create to do lists and brainstorming. After installing the program I had to figure out how to use it and that sent me on an interesting voyage of discovery. There are a number of YouTube videos with tutorials and explanations. The program is Java based and can be used in any OS.

Family Tree created with FreeMind Program

The first thing I learned is that mind mapping is a great tool for visual learners. I have discovered a long time ago that we don't do and see things in a linear way, but in a relational way of circles that are overlapping. Reading the information about mind mapping just confirmed my observation. In one video mind mapping was explained like this: "a mind map is the swiss army knife of the brain."

After creating my first simple map in FreeMind, my family tree, I will have to study the use of the program further and play around with the possibilities. For a free program it works great and has a lot of potential.

Short List of Sites I have discovered:

Sites for Online Mind Mapping

I would love to get some feedback about what programs you are using and your recommendations.

Comments

stephen said…

I have multiple mind mapping tools. What I use most is XMind, an award product, which has Open Source version and Commercial version. What I use is the Open Source version.I can use their free online service to upload and share my mind maps online with the world.
www.xmind.net

March 7, 2009 at 6:09 AM

marliescohen said…

Thank you Stephen. A quick look tells me that is going to be great.

Marlies

March 8, 2009 at 9:36 AM

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