free mind mapping tools for evidence research

Most of the note-taking techniques follow a linear model. It’s great in the exploratory phase of a project, and could be combined with a more restrictive phase later on to get the best of it. And there’s nothing surprising to these findings: mind mapping allows your mind to jump around and freely make connections, without a rigid structure. Research with young children shows that mind mapping has a positive impact on creativity. Even more interesting: the researchers found lower motivation in the group that had to use mind mapping-probably because selecting your own study method is more motivating-and suggested that higher motivation in using the method would result in yet even better memory recall results. The “mind mappers” did much better, especially when testing their long-term memory. In this study, participants were asked to complete a short test based on a 600-word passage of text prior to being randomly allocated to form two groups-one where they could pick whatever study technique they wanted, and the other where they had to use mind mapping. Scientific studies suggest a 10%-15% increase in retention when using mind maps. The flexible layout is akin to brain connections, creating links between thoughts to build a bigger picture, and making information easier to retrieve in various contexts. While classic notes are linear, mind mapping forces you to connect old and new concepts together. It’s an incredibly powerful and flexible thinking tool. It can be used for brainstorming, collaboration, and more. However, some of the earliest examples of mind maps were developed by Porphyry of Tyros, a philosopher of the 3rd century, who graphically visualised the concepts created by Aristotle.Ĭontrary to popular opinion, mind mapping is not just a note-taking technique. Tony Buzan died earlier in 2019, but his company still holds trademarks on the phrase “Mind Maps” in the context of self-improvement educational courses in the US, the UK, and Germany. While the term mind map was popularised by Tony Buzan, an English author and psychology consultant, the use of diagrams that visually map information using branching traces back centuries. There is great mind mapping software out there, but the beauty of mind mapping is that it only requires a pen and paper. You start from the centre, and then use branches to connect new concepts together. A mind map is a visual diagram that helps you connect information around a central concept.

Free mind mapping tools for evidence research