CLIP's Tips

In our last post we discussed ubiquitous capture—being able to capture ideas you have wherever you are.  In this post I will teach you a method to get the most out of those good ideas.

What do you do with that new idea for a project that you wrote down last week?  How do you go about solving a complex personnel problem?  To think through projects, problems, or ideas I advocate using a mind map. 

A mind map is a diagram used to aid brainstorming and organizing information around a central topic.  Here is an example of a hand-drawn mind map from GTD Times:

Here is a video demonstrating how I recently used a mind map:

(you may want to click on the button to expand it to full screen)

Obviously, this mind map is not exhaustive.  It simply demonstrates the process and format for creating a mind map.  For those who are curious, the program I used to create the mind map is at www.xmind.net.

Why Mind Map?

- As opposed to linear note taking or outlining, mind mapping allows your mind to jump around freely among various topics which is the way your mind naturally functions.

- Mind mapping is quick.  Mind mapping has enabled me to discover more ideas per minute than any other method I have used.

- Because mind maps are so visual, you will be able to see easily where you have gaps in your planning, where the most important concepts are, etc.

- Mind maps also serve as a way to remember information, especially if you are a visual learner.  Often times, you will be able to remember the content of a mind map simply because you remember its shape.

Some ideas for when to use a mind map:

• Team brainstorming
• Problem solving
• Note-taking during a conference or meeting
• Summarizing information you learned in a book

Advanced Mind-Mapping Tips from Mindtools.com:

Use single words or simple phrases for information: Most words in normal writing are padding: They convey facts in the correct context, and in a format that is pleasant to read. In your own Mind Maps, single strong words and meaningful phrases can convey the same meaning more potently. Excess words just clutter the Mind Map.

Print words: Joined up or indistinct writing can be more difficult to read.

Use color to separate different ideas: This will help you to separate ideas where necessary. It also makes your Mind Map easier to remember. Color also helps to show the organization of the subject.

Use symbols and images: Where a symbol or picture means something to you, use it. Pictures can help you to remember information more effectively than words.

Using cross-linkages: Information in one part of the Mind Map may relate to another part. Here you can draw in lines to show the cross-linkages. This helps you to see how one part of the subject connects with another.

Application Action:  Mind map a problem or project that you have been thinking about recently.  Let me know how it goes in the comments.