Using a mind map for planning and organizing

What is this feature?

A mind map is a visual aid that helps capture and link ideas, words, and concepts. Using a mind map in the brainstorming stage of the writing process provides a visual way to organize ideas, words, and concepts.

How do I use it?

The user brainstorms a series of nodes that contain key vocabulary and concepts around the topic being written about. The user then rearranges the nodes into a sequence or groupings that map out and organize their thinking. e.g.: Ideas that belong in the beginning, middle, or end of a written production.

How does it help?

A mind map allows the user to see a visual overview of their ideas, words, and concepts. This helps to determine relationships between these by using connecting arrows and lines. Some mind mapping software, allows you to export your mind map into an outline format that can be used in a word processor.

CMap is a free software for creating Mindmaps.  Below is a video of how to create a simple 3 node Map.


Download  a PDF  of  the steps in this video:   CMap 101 steps

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