When I was in third year of medical college, I started using mind maps as a way of taking notes efficiently and quickly, and that made learning more fun and memorable. I recall in fourth year, in a morning class lecture of Obstetrics and Gynecology, I was making a mind map on what the professor was teaching (the topic was endometriosis and the year was late 2004 or early 2005!). I was able to absorb everything that was being taught with clear understanding as I transcribed the information on my mind map. I still recall how enjoyable that process was. At the end of the class, I had the whole lecture on one page, while a colleague of mine, taking notes in the traditional linear, “top to bottom of the page,” approach had his notes in several pages, and it was just words!
The pioneer of mind maps was the late Tony Buzan, who along with his brother Barry Buzan, authored The Mind Map Book that explains in detail the process of mind mapping.
To mind map, the rules are simple and as follows:
- The main topic begins in the centre of the page.
- From that main idea, you create branches of the sub-ideas, topics, and concepts, which can also branch off into further sub-ideas or concepts.
- Use key words only. Words should be as few as possible, highlighting the key concepts.
- Add simple visual sketches next to your key words. Even if you’re not an artist, you can learn to do this easily.
- Use different colours to highlight the key words or concepts.
- Have fun with your mind maps!
There are many examples of mind maps on the Internet, and you can watch several awesome short videos on YouTube that can teach you how to mind map. Mind maps are written and sketched using a pen primarily, but there are apps available for purchase that can help you make mind maps digitally.
As you practice using mind maps, you’ll get better and better at it, and that will make your note-taking process as well as your learning process fun, enjoyable, and memorable.
The Mind Map has been termed “the Swiss army knife of the brain”, and only when you use it as a learning tool will you realise the validity of this statement.
Give it a try. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain!
