Title: 3.5 Note Taking with Mind Maps
Course: RITA LEARNING MODULES > Section: 3. Note Taking for Success

Using a Mind Map to Summarize Information

To quickly summarize a lot of information, some people find it helpful to draw a “mind map” that shows how different topics are connected. (“Mind Map” is a trademark of the Buzan Organization)

Mind maps can be used inside or in conjunction with the Cornell Method of notetaking. The idea is to let your mind wander as freely as possible around the subject, thinking of key words or phrases that trigger ideas. The most important of these are placed nearest to the central image and are connected with lines to the center. After this, you should add associated ideas to each of the key words, again using lines to connect them. The image below shows a mind map on “mind map laws."

View a larger version of this mind map.

The process of creating the map can help to sort ideas and how they fit together. These maps are very personal and can be as elaborate or as simple as you wish—there is no right or wrong way to do it. Some people like to add a lot of detail, including color, pictures, page references, and examples, while others prefer a simple plan, concentrating on key points.

Mind maps can be created using a computer instead of using pen and paper. The advantage of using a computer is that you can edit the components of your mind map. The figure below shows an extended mind map of a learning experience made with a mind mapping program.

Computer-generated mind map showing what was learned when my car broke down; view a larger version of this mind map.

If you’re interested in further exploring computer-based mind mapping, the following websites offer free mind map creation programs:

- XMind.
- MindMeister.
- iMindMap.
- bubbl.us.
- Text 2 Mind Map