A few years ago I started to learn about tools and techniques to become an effective learner and creative problem solver. I found the insights of Mind Mapping researched by Tony Buzan invaluable. As a result, I highly recommend Joyce Wycoff’s book Mind Mapping and Inspirations Software. Of course there are other books and tools that you can utilize.
A mind map is a diagram used to visually organize information. A mind map is hierarchical and shows relationships among pieces of the whole.[1] It is often created around a single concept, drawn as an image in the center of a blank page, to which associated representations of ideas such as images, words and parts of words are added. Major ideas are connected directly to the central concept, and other ideas branch out from those major ideas. Source Wikipedia
Mind Mapping Applications:
- Studying
- Organizing
- Solving problems
- Making decisions
- Writing
- Brainstorming
- Visualize ideas
- Generate solutions
- Classify information
Mind Mapping Resources:
Mind Mapping Your Personal Guide to Exploring Creativity and
Let Mindmapping lead you to creative problem solving, clearer decision making, innovative thinking and brainstorming, improved memory and concentration, and better organization skills.
Inspiration Software
For visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations, use Inspiration® 9, the ultimate thinking and learning tool. Brainstorm ideas, structure your thoughts and visually communicate concepts to strengthen understanding with the Diagram and Map Views. To take notes, organize information, and structure writing for plans, papers and reports, use the integrated Outline View to focus on main and supporting ideas and to clarify thinking in written form. With Inspiration’s Presentation Manager, transform your diagrams, mind maps and outlines into polished presentations that communicate ideas clearly and demonstrate understanding and knowledge.
What tools do you use to become more creative and a more effective problem solver?