Have you been spending endless hours revising yet feel unprepared for the exam? Why not try using Mind Maps? The first and foremost question that may now arise to your mind is what exactly is Mind Mapping? Well, Mind Mapping is an extremely effective method of note taking. It helps you to learn more effectively, improves the way that you record information and enhances creative problem solving. History shows that Mind Mapping goes back as far as third century BC. A Philosopher, Porphyry of Tyros is considered to be the first individual to use the method of Mind Mapping. Later, Arts and Literature personalities such as Ramon Liull and Leonardo Da Vinci used Mind Mapping in their fields of work. However, it was not until 1950s when researchers such as Quillian and Dr. Collins used the method of Mind Mapping in learning. Following this, in 1960s, Psychologist Tony Buzan established clear guidance associated with Mind Mapping which made it ever more popular for the generations to come.

Today, mind mapping is considered the best methods of learning. A mind map is simply described as a diagram that is used to visually outline a set of information. This is what makes Mind Maps different from many other methods of learning as it allows you to be analytical as well as artistic. So what is the best way to go about doing a Mind Map? Well, you can typically start with the main subject in the centre of the page. The main subject can be written inside a square, rectangular or circular shape as Mind Mapping is not restricted to any one shape, size or colour. In fact, various studies have proven that the use of shape, colour, combined together to add visual impact, and incorporate symbols and images stimulates the brain in a more effective way. Following this, ideas or sub subjects can be written or drawn on the lines radiating from the main subject in the centre. You can add additional lines radiating from the sub subjects for topics of lesser importance. Following this simple method will enable your ideas to flow freely as opposed to structured note taking. This way you will quickly understand the structure of a subject and ascertain how sub subjects fit together. This further leads to making connections and solving problems.

If you haven’t already tried this method, why not do it now? There is no right or wrong way of doing it. Simply concentrate on the main subject and allow your ideas to flow with the use of colour and images until you feel confident that you have exhausted your ideas and see immediate results!

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