How to Create a Mind Map on PC

Mind maps are used to visualize and structure knowledge and to generate related ideas. A mind map consists of the central idea and a number of related ideas, arranged in a radial diagram. By focusing on the central idea and then expanding it with related items, one can map information in a way that helps to structure, understand and remember knowledge.

1. Run ConceptDraw MINDMAP
2. A blank document window opens and a default Main Idea topic appears in the center of the window.

3. Select the Main Idea and type your custom text to label it. When you finish typing, click on a blank area of the drawing page or press Enter.
4. To add the new topic at the first level — Main Topics, select the Main Idea and press Enter. Each Main Topic represents a different aspect of your problem or issue.
5. Write words or short phrases to identify what the Main Topic means. To add topics at the same level select the topic and press Enter.
6. Press Shift-Enter to Subtopics flowing off the Main Topics, developing the ideas.

7. Organize your mind map by selecting topics with your mouse, and then dragging and dropping them to a new location.
8. You can change topics' subordination easily using the Indent (Ctrl→) and Outdent (Ctrl←) commands.
9. Use the Arrange panel to arrange mind map in a variety of ways.

10. You can number your topic using the Insert tab Ordering section. By default topics are ordered clockwise beginning from the top. To change the numbered topic order select an ordering option from the list.

11. Use colors, images, boundaries or other tools available from the Format tab to draw attention to the key points and highlight associations.

Result: Now your basic mind map is ready — ideas are listed, organized and ready for further consideration and communication.