# Mind mapping

**Source**: https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/mind-mapping/
**Parent**: https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/learning-at-university/

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# Mind mapping

- [Analysing questions](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/analysing-questions/)
- [Critical thinking](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/critical-thinking/)
  - [Academic arguments](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/academic-arguments/)
- [Habits of mind](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/habits-of-mind/)
  - [Active learning](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/active-learning/)
  - [Reflection and introspection](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/reflection-and-introspection/)
- [Time management](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/)
  - [SMART goals](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/smart-goals/)
  - [Pomodoro technique](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/pomodoro/)
  - [Scheduling your semester](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/scheduling-your-semester/)
  - [Staying motivated](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/staying-motivated/)
  - [Dealing with procrastination](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/dealing-with-procrastination/)
  - [Prioritising your tasks](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/time-management/prioritising-your-tasks/)
- [Note-taking](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/)
  - [Digital note-taking](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/digital/)
  - [Cornell note-taking method](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/cornell/)
  - [Charting note-taking method](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/charting/)
  - [Mind mapping](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/key-study-skills/note-taking/mind-mapping/)

Learn to use a visual presentation for your note-taking and study.

## What is mind mapping?

Mind mapping involves creating a diagram in which ideas, concepts or images are linked together around a central core concept. It can be used during lectures or presentations, and even while you are reading or watching a video.

## How does it work?

- Write down the main topic (central core concept) in the centre of a blank page.
- Add keywords or short phrases about your topic.
- Use lines to show relationships and links between different keywords or phrases.

**Tips:**

- Your mind map can easily get cluttered so be conscious of how you allocate space.
- You can also use different colours or graphics or symbols to illustrate your ideas or show connections.

## How can I use mind maps?

- To take notes during lectures or from your readings.
- To plan your essays or research.
- To help you revise for test and exams.
- To help you learn or understand a complex topic.  When you break a topic down into different aspects, it can simplify and clarify information.

## How can I make a mind map?

Create your mind map on paper or try an online tool like [Miro](https://miro.com/mind-map/), [Lucidchart](https://www.lucidchart.com/pages/examples/mind_mapping_software) or [Mindmeister.](http://www.mindmeister.com/)

### Related topics

- [Preparing for exams and tests](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/exams-and-tests/preparing-for-exams-and-tests/)
- [Active learning](https://learningessentials.auckland.ac.nz/learning-at-university/active-learning/)

### Workshops

- [Academic Skills: Note-taking](https://auckland.campuslabs.com/engage/events?categories=19621)

See all [available workshops](https://auckland.campuslabs.com/engage/organization/tetumuherenga).

**Short on time? Watch a video on:**

- [Critical thinking](https://canvas.auckland.ac.nz/courses/99789/pages/critical-thinking) – 6:01
- [Time management](https://canvas.auckland.ac.nz/courses/99789/pages/time-management) – 5:15
- [Note-taking](https://canvas.auckland.ac.nz/courses/99789/pages/note-taking) – 5:39

Have any questions?

[Ask us](https://www.forms.auckland.ac.nz/en/public/library/ask-us.html)