A mind map is a great way to present the ideas, tasks, concepts, or steps related to a particular subject in a non-linear graphical form that tells the user a lot in a single glance. According to research, the human mind catches the information in a non-linear fashion, so to learn more in less time, we should present things in the same way our mind works.
Mind mapping is used by many large organizations worldwide and hence is a handy tool. So, before learning how to make a mind map in Word, let's have a look at its significance in our daily life:
Part 1: How Can It Be Called A Good Mind Mapping Tool?
We always consider using some tools when working with graphics rather than doing everything manually. For mind mapping, there are many tools that you can use for free to create any mind maps, but how can you identify which is the excellent mind mapping tool? Here are some things to find in a good mind mapping tool:
- Real-time Editing:
Check if the tool allows multiple users to edit and work on a particular mind map simultaneously or not. The collaborative drawing feature is a must, especially for the Strategy and Creative mind maps where multiple users are working on it. - Easy File Attachments:
Check whether you can attach the audio, video, images, links, or other external files to the mind maps easily or not. A good mind mapping tool allows you to attach external files easily. - Presentation and Sharing Tools:
Check if it is easy to present or share your mind maps using a specific tool or not. A mind mapping tool should have features to share the mind maps or convert them into presentations and easy access, as mind mapping is used for visual communication.
Features to Consider When Choosing a Mind Map:
Here is what you should look for in a mind mapping software:
- Ease of Use
- User-friendliness
- Available templates
- Mind Map Layouts
- Integration with Microsoft Office Applications
- File sharing and attachments
- Task handling
- Project management tools
- Collaboration tools
Now that we know the significance of mind maps and the features to look for in the mind mapping tools, let's learn how to create a mind map in Word:
Part 2: How to Make A Mind Map in Word?
Although there are many software for Mind mapping, most of them are licensed and can only be used after purchase. So alternatively, you can use MS Word to create the mind maps. To create the mind maps manually in Word, there are three steps to follow:
- Open MS Word.
- Go to Insert Tab.
- Click on Shapes in the Illustrations group.
- Choose Rectangles and Circles to represent the Central idea and subtopic.
- Use the Textboxes to label the shapes.
- Once you have illustrated your ideas, concepts, or topics, you need to connect them to give them meaning. To illustrate the concepts flow, use the Arrows available in the shapes group under the Insert tab.
- After completing the mind mapping, you need to make it attractive and colorful so that it can catch attention. To format the shapes you used in the mind map, select the shape by clicking on it and go to the Format tab, where you will find the tools for formatting.
Besides creating mind maps using shapes and illustrations, some word mapping templates are pre-designed for you. You only need to install them, and you are good to go.
MS Word is the best tool for beginners to start with mind maps. It is fully equipped with shapes and illustration tools that could be used for effective mind mapping. Without spending a penny, you create, share and work with mind maps.
Part 3: How to Make A Mind Map in PDNob Mind Map Online?
PDNob is a mind mapping tool used to visualize your ideas in a better and simpler way without much complexity. This tool has all the features that good mind mapping tools should have. It lets you create the Mind maps in simple steps and within the minimum time possible. You do not need to install this tool as it allows you to create mind maps online. Here is how you can use PDNOb to make mind maps:
Once you have installed and launched the PDNOb Mind Map Online tool, click on Add New button on the home screen.
Then you can edit the mind map as you like.
Once you have created the Mind Map, you will need to save the file or may want to rename, export, or delete the files. So here is how you can perform each action in PDNob Mind Map Online:
Conclusion:
This article is intended to educate you about mind maps and how to make a mind map in Word. As stated earlier, mind maps are a great tool to effectively visualize your ideas to present them to others. They help improve the power of your brain to perceive information by observing much information at a glance. You can create a mind map on paper or a whiteboard, but it is always best to do it using some tool. The most straightforward tools to create mind maps include MS Word, and the PDNob Mind Map Online tool explained in this article. We hope you find it helpful. Thanks for reading!
A Pioneering Mind Map Tool
PDNob Mind Map
A full-featured mind mapping and brainstorming tool to help generate ideas visually.