About mind mapping
Mind mapping is a powerful way to visually organise ideas, projects, or processes. Instead of writing long lists or paragraphs, you place a main idea in the centre and build out related ideas around it.
This can help you see connections more clearly, structure your thinking, and turn complex ideas into something easier to understand.
It is especially helpful for people who are neurodiverse, such as those with ADHD, autism, or dyslexia, because it supports different ways of thinking and processing information.
How Mind Mapping can support you
- Visual clarity: Mind maps present information in a non-linear, visual format, which can make it easier to understand and retain.
- Reduces cognitive overload: By breaking down complex topics into manageable chunks, mind maps help reduce overwhelm and support clearer thinking.
- Supports memory and focus: The use of colour, structure, and keywords can improve recall and help maintain attention.
- Encourages creativity: Mind mapping allows for free-flowing ideas and connections, which can be especially useful for those who think in patterns or images.
- Flexible structure: Users can build maps in a way that suits their own logic, rather than being forced into a rigid format
Tips for getting the best experience
- Keep text short and simple
- Use colour or spacing to group ideas
- Do not worry about neatness – focus on clarity
- Start messy, then refine if needed
- Combine with a focus plan to turn ideas into actions
When to use mind mapping
Mind maps are useful for:
- Brainstorming ideas
- Planning projects or tasks
- Structuring documents or presentations
- Taking notes in meetings
- Breaking down complex problems
How to create a simple mind map
Start with a central idea
- Write your main topic in the centre of the page
- Keep it short and clear
Add main branches
- Draw lines out from the centre
- Add key themes or related ideas
Break it down further
- Add smaller branches for details, tasks, or examples
- Keep each point brief
Keep it flexible
- Move ideas around if needed
- Try not to worry about making it look perfect
Mind mapping is about exploring ideas, not getting it “right” first time.
Microsoft tools for mind mapping
You can create mind maps using tools you may already have:
Microsoft Whiteboard
- A free-form, visual workspace
- Lets you draw, type, and move ideas easily
- Great for brainstorming individually or with others
How to start:
- Open Microsoft Whiteboard
- Add a central idea using text or drawing
- Create branches using shapes or pen tools
- Move and group ideas as you go
Microsoft PowerPoint
- Useful for simple, structured mind maps
- Uses shapes and connectors
How to start:
- Insert a blank slide
- Add a central text box
- Use Shapes and Lines to build branches
- Copy and reposition items as needed
Microsoft OneNote
- Flexible note-taking tool with a free layout
- Good for combining notes, links, and ideas
How to start:
- Open a blank page in OneNote
- Add your central idea
- Create text boxes around it
- Group or space ideas visually
Microsoft Visio (structured diagrams)
- A diagramming tool that can create structured, clear mind maps
- Useful when you want something more organised or to share with others
- Good for turning ideas into formal diagrams or plans
How to create a simple mind map in Visio:
- Open Visio
- Select a template (for example Basic Diagram or Flowchart)
- Add a central shape for your main idea
- Drag additional shapes onto the page for related ideas
- Use Connectors to link ideas together
- Add text to each shape
- Rearrange and group ideas to keep the structure clear
Visio is best for:
- Creating clear, shareable diagrams
- Planning processes or structured ideas
- Turning a rough mind map into a polished output
Copilot and other AI tools
- Can help generate ideas to populate your mind map
- Useful if you’re unsure where to start
Try asking:
Give me ideas for…
Break this topic into key themes…
For each of these include the details of the topic you want to explore.