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Introduction to Advanced Mind Mapping Study Skills
For those of us who are blessed with the gift of sight, it is easy to understand how critical and important it is to our daily life, decisions and actions. Our visual organs bring forth into our conscious mind a world of color, intrigue, movement and depth. We perceive our reality to be real and true based on our personal perceptions and interpretations of this visual and breathtaking world. Not only do we live within a reality of pictures and moving images, but what is even more profound, is that we dream and think in pictures 24/7. In fact, our entire existence revolves around the concept of visual images passing through the recesses of our mind like clouds moving across the sky. So is it really surprising that mind mapping is considered to be the key to Accelerating our Learning Potential?
Today’s discussion will focus around the concept of Mind Mapping and how it can be applied to the process of accelerated learning. The first branch of the IQ Matrix focuses on the benefits of Mind Mapping. We discuss how it can be utilized for business, academic purposes and our daily life undertakings. The second branch of the IQ Matrix delves into describing and expanding a number of visual mapping methods that you can utilize to clarify, learn and expand upon your ideas. The third branch of the IQ Matrix presents you with a number of informative IQ Matrix reading examples. These will help you better understand how to read through the IQ Matrixes available through this site. The final branch of the IQ Matrix provides you with a number of Mind Mapping Study Tips for homework help as well as for examination purposes. By following this process, you will effectively gain an edge on others and drastically reduce your study time and effort, while Accelerating Your Learning Potential.
1. The Benefits of Mind Mapping in Business, Academics and Life
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Mind Mapping is an ideal tool that will help us to Accelerate our Learning Potential in a variety of ways. However, its applications have a far wider reach than one might initially have expected. Within this branch of the IQ Matrix we will discuss these applications in some detail. You will discover how Mind Mapping can be applied into a business context, into everyday life management, and into academic circles. However, we will begin our discussion with the benefits of Mind Mapping and the consequences that will result from its application into your day-to-day thinking, decisions and actions.
- Benefits of Mind Mapping - The benefits of Mind Mapping are far reaching and therefore somewhat difficult to measure accurately. In fact, the benefits of Mind Mapping extend into just about every area of our lives, helping us to think more effectively and grow exponentially as a result of the improved efficiency of thought they bring forth into our daily reality. The discussion that follows will provide you with an introduction to Mind Mapping and how it can be applied to specific life areas. In a future Mind Map we will break down in detail how you can specifically apply Mind Mapping to Problem Solving, Brainstorming, Goal Setting, Organizing Information, Creativity, Critical thinking and much more.
Provides Global Perspective of Ideas & Information - One reason why chunks of information are difficult to understand is that we fail to see these chunks from a global perspective. It’s like trying to piece together that the earth is round from the ground. It’s only when we pan out and into space and view the earth as a whole, do we begin to comprehend the nature of our spherical and magnificent planet. The same is true of the information we are attempting to learn. Many times we get lost within the details and fail to see the larger picture. Hence, if we are able to somehow zoom out and view this information from a global perspective we will then be better able to see all interconnected pieces interacting with each other in a multitude of ways. For instance, even though this post presents you with a lot more information than you will find within the IQ Matrix, it however presents this information in an ordered manner with very little interlocking between topics, thusly making it more difficult to fully comprehend in one reading. On the other hand, simply spending a few moments over-viewing the IQ Matrix will present you with a thorough global perspective of the subject matter.
Improves Problem Solving Ability - The better you are able to manage and organize your problem within a Mind Map, the more connections you will likely find between seemingly disjointed fragments of information. As a result, this will help you to find answers that normally may not have been evident. To learn more about the process of problem solving, have a read of Awaken Your Problem Solver from Within.
Improves Creative & Critical Thinking Ability - Our ability to think Critically and Creatively is built upon the foundation of how effectively we can piece together seemingly unrelated bits of information within our minds. Mind Mapping is one of the best tools and processes you can utilize that will enhance and encourage the development of this type of thinking. To learn more about the process of creativity and critical thinking, have a read of Unlocking Your Creative Genius Potential and Becoming an Outstanding Critical Thinker.
Improves Concentration - Reading or learning information in a linear fashion puts a lot of pressure on our brain. In fact over extended periods of time it can become quite draining on our mental resources, which can further lead to fatigue and cause our concentration levels to suffer as a result. Many times when you read through chunks of linear information, you will forget most of what you have just read because it fails to excite and enliven the mind. Mind Mapping on the other hand presents your brain with an enlivening stimulus filled with interconnecting pieces, colors, images, symbols and words that work together to energize the brain and improve concentration.
Improves Photographic Memory - Because we think, dream and predominantly imagine our world in pictures, it just makes sense that a Mind Map would in fact help us to improve our photographic memory. If I asked you to think of a donkey… actually close your eyes and think of a donkey… do it now… when done continue. Did you see the words “DONKEY” in your mind? Or did you actually envision an image of a donkey? Most people would see the image of a donkey as this is consistent with the process of how we think about the information in our lives. A Mind Map interlocks and associates words with vivid colors, symbols and imaginative images. When it comes time to recall your Mind Map from memory, you normally won’t first see the words come to mind, instead you will envision the colors, symbols and images that created a lasting impression on your long-term memory. And all this works together to help improve your photographic memory and recall of information.
Improves Flow of Ideas - When we are able to understand the associations, connections and interaction between different pieces of information, this naturally brings forth a spurt of creative and unique ideas that we normally would not have been able to piece together by utilizing a linear process of thinking. This is the primary reason why Mind Mapping is one of the most effective tools for brainstorming ideas.
Improves Ability to Manage Information - It is easy to become overwhelmed with the amount of information that we are required to assimilate into our psyche these days. Have you ever attended a seminar where they provided you with a wealth of information that completely overloaded your brain? 
I have personally been in that situation. It’s not a pleasant place to be, as it makes you feel inadequate, incapable and extremely frustrated. The solution for this is to utilize Mind Maps to better manage all kinds of information in your life. Undertaking this process consistently from the very beginning, will provide you with a sense of control and confidence, helping to improve your effectiveness and efficiency at school, at work and in life. We will discuss specific Mind Mapping strategies on how to go about this process of information management at another time.
Improves Confidence - When you are able to effectively utilize Mind Mapping for all the above, than you will naturally radiate confidence that will further help you to excel with your management of information as you move into the future.
- Business Applications of Mind Mapping - Mind Mapping will help you to improve your effectiveness and efficiency in the day-to-day management of your business activities in surprising ways. Not only will it help you to clarify your thinking, but it will also save you time and reduce the overwhelm that we can experience when too much information is thrown our way. Some of these concepts will be broken down in much more detail in a future post.
Communicating Message & Ideas - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping when you are finding it difficult to explain a concept or idea to one of your workmates.
Planning Time - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping to better manage, overview and structure your time around your important and urgent activities and priorities. When you have a global perspective of where you need to spend your most important time, than you will feel more in control and secure in the knowledge that time is relative - it’s what you make of it that counts.
Planning Meeting Agenda - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping to better structure, plan and organize your meetings. Sometimes we come into a meeting a little unprepared and as a result fail to discuss relevant matters that were critical to the meeting. However, when you take the time to draw up a Mind Map of the agenda, you will effectively piece together a comprehensive picture of the issues that need to by addressed and discussed throughout the meeting. This Mind Map may also help others to draw unique insights and ideas that will further enhance the effectiveness of the meeting.
Planning Company Trainings - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping to organize and prepare company trainings. When you are training someone for the first time about specific topics, it is easy to skip over important pieces of information that are necessary for the trainees understanding. By following along with a Mind Map, not only will you be better able to present your knowledge to your recruits, but they will also be better prepared to understand the concepts from a global perspective.
Planning Speeches & Presentations - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping to prepare and present your speeches and presentations. Sometimes we rush, skip-over or forget to present critical components of our presentations due to a variety of factors. Mind Mapping will help you to piece together your speech or presentation in a structured and focused manner.
Planning Negotiations - You may like to utilize Mind Mapping before and throughout the negotiation process. As you are negotiating a deal, simply doodle a diagram of the deal in a Mind Map format on paper. This will help you to gather a global perspective of the issues under negotiation, which may likewise provide you with unique insights and answers that will assist you to pull the deal off to your satisfaction.
- Academic Applications of Mind Mapping - Mind Mapping is best known for its application within Academic circles for Accelerating Learning and dramatically enhancing photographic memory. Let’s take a closer look at some of these benefits and how they apply to Academia. Some of these concepts will be broken down in much more detail in a future post.
Used as Revision Tool - Mind Mapping can be utilized as an effective revision tool for class notes. Because Mind Mapping provides a global perspective about a topic, it helps students to build the foundations of strong associations between interconnecting chunks of the subject matter. More about this in the forth branch of the IQ Matrix.
Used for Exam Preparation - When it comes to preparing for examinations, there is no better tool than Mind Mapping. We will discuss the process of how to study and prepare for your examinations within the forth branch of the IQ Matrix.
Used for Improving Memorization of Information - Because Mind Mapping naturally mimics the brains cognitive processes, this makes it an ideal tool for memorizing large chunks of information. When something you are studying is consistent with your patterns of thinking and remembering, it becomes easy to learn and recall.
Used for Over-viewing Links, Associations & Connections - Mind Mapping interlocks, links together and associates seemingly unrelated fragments of information in a way that makes them easy to remember and recall at a later time. It is therefore the most comprehensive and ideal tool that will help you to gather a global perspective and overview about the subject under study. More about this a little later on.
Used for Accelerated Learning Purposes - Mind Mapping is one of many tools that are critical for accelerated learning. To learn more about the process of accelerated learning have a read of the 7 Intelligences of Accelerated Learning, Accelerated Speed Reading Study Skills and Advanced Multi-Sensory Study Skills.
- Life Applications of Mind Mapping - Mind Mapping and daily life management practices don’t usually go hand-in-hand for most people. We understand how it can be applied to Academics and for Business purposes, however we struggle to comprehend how we can implement and utilize it within our day-to-day lives. Moreover, we struggle to see how it could potentially enhance our lives through a process of simplification and better organization. Hopefully this section will assist you in overcoming some of these misconceptions, and will provide you with a few simple guidelines that will help you to apply the process of Mind Mapping into your day-to-day undertakings. Some of these concepts will be broken down in much more detail in a future post.
Used as a Brainstorming Tool - Do you have a sudden problem? Do you need immediate inspiration? Are you trying to work out how to manage a task or activity more effectively? Simply break out some crayons and a piece of paper and Mind Map your thoughts and ideas in magnificent ways.
Used to Organize Lists - Do you have a long list of things that you must accomplish? Do you become easily overwhelmed with all the things that you must remember to do throughout your day? If the answer is “Yes”, than you might find it helpful Mind Mapping your lists on paper in a way that will better organize, arrange and structure them in your mind. Once things are organized and arranged, you will feel a great burden lift off your chest. This new found clarity of thought will enhance your memory and ability to think more effectively about the tasks at hand.
Used to Organize Events - Planning and organizing events can fatigue even the most hardy of souls. It’s sometimes difficult to predict everything that is required, who must be invited, and what must be accomplished at any one moment in time. All of these responsibilities can easily overwhelm and overload our minds. However, with the help of a simple Mind Map you will more effectively be able to manage, plan and organize your event the way you envisioned it within the recesses of your mind.
Used for Lifelong Rapid Learning - I hope that this discussion about Mind Mapping has helped you realize that Mind Mapping isn’t a skill that one learns and utilizes occasionally. It is rather a lifelong commitment you make to yourself that will help you to increase the speed and effectiveness of all your learning as you progress through the transitional cycles of life. With it, the world is your oyster. Without it… well let’s say that there are no pearls if we remain ignorant of this accelerated learning process 
2. Visual Mapping Types and Methods
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Mind Mapping is just one of several methods of mapping out information and ideas that one can utilize. Our brains think in unique and exponential ways. Each and every piece of information is best studied and memorized through a structured process of learning that assimilates each chunk of information in the most effective and efficient manner that naturally mimics the brain’s cognitive thinking patterns. Within this branch of the IQ Matrix we will discuss some of these types of maps and their purpose. We will also delve into the computer generated and hand drawn methods of Mind Mapping that you can utilize on a daily basis.
- Visual Mapping Types - The following is a quick break down of 7 unique mapping types that can be utilized to effectively represent the information you are learning. How you apply these maps will vary in accordance to the structure of the information you are learning, and upon your purpose, objectives and goals. See the IQ Matrix for visual examples of each of these map types.
Cyclical Maps - Are used to represent key terms within stages in a cyclic process.
Radial Maps - Are Mind Map type structures with sub-topics radiating from a central image or word.
Converging Maps - Are used to represent causes that lead to a single effect.
Hierarchical Maps - Are used to represent key terms as smaller and smaller parts of a larger topic.
Interacting Maps - Are Concept Map type structures that interlink with each other in a variety of ways.
Comparison Maps - Are used to compare two or more things with each other. The central interlocking part represents the object’s shared components or characteristics.
Linear Maps - Are Flowchart type structures that represent linear stages of a process that has a beginning and an ending.
- Mind Mapping Methods - The following is a break down of two popular Mind Mapping methods you can utilize to represent your ideas and the information you are learning. There are benefits and drawbacks to each method, so it is important that you take into account your purpose, goals and objectives before deciding upon the method that you would like to utilize for your learning. However, keep in mind that in some instances one method will be more effective than the other. Therefore sometimes it is best to choose the method you will utilize based on the time you have available, the information you are learning, and the resources you have on hand.
Hand Drawn Mind Maps - Personally, I have been creating hand drawn Mind Maps for years since my University days. I found them to be of great benefit, as they allowed me to expand my thinking and understanding about the topics I was learning in exponential ways. However, throughout my experimentations with hand drawn Mind Maps I did come across a number of drawbacks that eventually convinced me to make the switch to computer generated mind mapping for specific purposes. Here is a break down of some of the benefits and drawbacks pertaining to this method of Mind Mapping.
Benefits - Hand drawn Mind Maps are flexible in nature allowing you to bend, squiggle and flex the map any way you wish. This enhances the Mind Map’s organic structure making it far easier to remember and utilize as an accelerated learning tool. Another benefit of a hand drawn Mind Map is that it is personal in nature. You physically design it utilizing your gifted artistic talents 
It is this personal touch corresponding to your natural thinking patterns that will help you to assimilate the information you are mapping out far more easily.
Drawbacks - Hand drawn Mind Maps are limited to the amount of space that is available on the sheet of paper you are working from. Personally I used to always cram the information I was mapping out right near the edges of the page I was working from. Another drawback is that it is time consuming. Hand drawing your Mind Maps with appropriate pictures, symbols and colors can take a great deal of time depending on how thoroughly you design you maps. Within the same period of time you could have potentially created a handful of computer generated Mind Maps.
Examples - Some profound examples of superbly and meticulously hand drawn Mind Maps are available from the Mind Map Inspiration Website. Paul Foreman is one of the most gifted Mind Map artists you will find. His website is chock full of quality Mind Maps about spiritual transformation, personal development, effective thinking, inspiration and health. A couple of months ago he wrote an interesting guest post on the IQ Matrix blog about De-Cluttering Your Life, Environment and Mind. He has recently pieced together a collection of his 60 greatest Mind Maps, which are now available in an eBook format from his website. Please be patient with the loading time of his web page. The welcome page takes a few seconds to load.
Computer Generated Mind Maps - This method of Mind Mapping has generated a lot of interest over the past 5 years. Today there are more software applications for Mind Mapping available than ever before. And it seems that almost every single month there is a new player on the market. Each piece of software or online application has their own benefits and drawbacks. However, for the purpose of this discussion let’s take a quick look at the overall picture, and compare how today’s Mind Mapping software stacks up against hand drawn Mind Maps.
Benefits - Computer generated Mind Maps are collapsible, expandable, structured, multi-dimensional and quick to put together.
Drawbacks - Computer generated Mind Maps are impersonal and rigid. Meaning that you cannot always do what you envision in your mind.
Mind Mapping / Concept Mapping Software Leaders - The following is a list of the Mind Mapping Software market leaders (the first 3 are the major players in the marketplace). Every software package has a number of drawbacks and benefits. Your best option is to try these software packages out for a few weeks (depending on their trial period) and decide for yourself if they serve your purposes.
> Mindjet MindManager - 30 day free trial available
> NovaMind - 30 day free trial available
> iMindMap - 7 day free trial available
> FreeMind - Completely free to download and use
> ConceptDraw Mind Map - 30 day free trial available
> Visual Mind - 30 day free trial available
> Inspiration - 30 day free trial period
> OpenMind - Free trial period available
> Xmind - Free trial period available
> MindMapper - Free trial period available
> SmartDraw - Free trial period available Not purely for Mind Mapping
3D Mind Mapping - The following is a list of 3D Mind Mapping software that is available on the internet. The 3D packages absorb you into the world of your content, and help you to understand the information from an insider’s perspective. You really have to download the trial version of the software to truly grasp a comprehensive idea of what these packages can do.
> Topicscape - 30 day free trial available. Student Edition is Free.
> Nelements - Free paid versions available
Online Mind Mapping Applications - The following is a list of online Mind Mapping and Flowcharting applications that you can utilize to create your own Maps, or to collaborate with others. Each of them have slightly different features, so it is important that you settle on an online software package that best fits your needs.
> MindMeister - Free and Premium versions available
> Bubbl.us - Free
> Mindomo - Free and Premium versions available
> CoMapping - 30 day free trial available
> Mind42 - Free trial period available
> Mapul - Free trial period available
> FlowChart - Online flowcharting in your browser
> Gliffy - Free online diagramming software
Lesser Known Mind Mapping / Concept Mapping Applications - The following are some of the lesser known Mind Mapping and Concept Mapping software packages available online. Some of these packages are new and have a number of interesting and revolutionary features. While others have been around for a few years and haven’t quite been able to get a foothold within the Mind Mapping Market. However, please don’t discount these software packages. Some of them do have interesting features and may well be worth checking out.
> Cayra - Free trial period available. Concept Mapping software.
> TheBrain - Free and Professional versions available
> Mind Visualizer - Free trial period available
> Pocket Mindmap - Mind Mapping on your pocket PC
> Mind Genius - 7 to 21 day free trial available on 3 versions.
> Cornerstone - 21 day free trial available
> MYmap - Free trial period available
> MindPlan - Combines Mind Mapping and Project Management
> HeadCase - 28 Day free trial period
> MindPad - 30 day free trial period
> BrainMine - Free trial period available
> SparkSpace - 30 day free trial available
> MindCad - Free trial period available
> i2Brain - Free trial period available
3. IQ Matrix Reading Guidelines
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I have somewhat described the process of how to go about reading a IQ Matrix within IQ Matrix 101 - Advanced Mind Mapping Strategies. However, I feel that there are a number of things that I should still clarify and expand upon. Hence, this branch of the IQ Matrix will focus on expanding your understanding about the IQ Matrix reading process. I am hopeful that by reading through this section you will be better able to follow and comprehensively understand each branch of a IQ Matrix more thoroughly. I will not bog you down with details here, but rather just provide you with the critical components that will help you to read each IQ Matrix more effectively and efficiently.
- Blockers - At times on a IQ Matrix you will notice small RED DOTS placed onto branches. These are known as “Blockers”. They basically work as punctuation fullstops. Whenever you reach one of these “Blockers” it is important to pause and then continue reading along the branches as though you have started a new sentence.
- Colors - Colors are utilized to segregate key chunks or topics of a IQ Matrix from other chunks and topics. They help to distinguish segments of each IQ Matrix making it far more easier to remember and recall.
- Images - Images are utilized as a tool to enhance your photographic memory and awareness of key words and pieces of content. I endeavor to include as many pictures as I can within each IQ Matrix without overloading it too extensively. Each and every image utilized within a IQ Matrix is linked to and associated with a key piece of content within its proximity. The images can represent the content either literally or metaphorically. Let’s take a look at the screen-shot above to describe how some these images are used:
Blockers - An image of a hand is seen as though in the process of halting traffic. Hence, it represents the word “blocking”.
Colors - An image of a cartoon figure holding a paint pallet filled with different colors represents the word “colors”.
Distinguish - This one is a little trickier to understand. A cartoon figure of what appears to be a distinguished gentleman is utilized to represent the word “distinguish”.
Branches - An image of a twig with leaves is used as a representation of the word “branches”.
Hierarchical - An image of a business woman standing high on podium with others looking up at her is utilized to represent the word “hierarchical”.
Structure - An image of a pyramid type donut structure is utilized to represent the word “structure”.
Read - An image of a child reading a book represents the word “read”.
Following - An image of man (could be the Pide Piper) with a flute. Behind him are three sacks of money following his lead. Hence the image represents the word “following”.
Arrows - An image of an arrow representing the word “arrows”.
Path of Branches - An image of a man sitting on and trying to chop off a long branch. The image represents a combination of words “path of branches”. The branches make a path that the man is sitting on.
Think of each image as a landmark on a road. You are traveling in a foreign country by car. You have no idea what the street signs say, however you do have exceptional perceptive abilities and take instructions well. You ask a local for directions (thankfully they speak English). They tell you that in order to reach your destination you must continue down this road until you reach the color pallet. From here you must turn left. When you reach the distinguished gentleman you must take a right turn and continue until you hit the branches, and so forth. By simply remembering the images (landmarks) and the “right” and “left” directions you will be able to reach your destination without any problems. The same is true when it comes to our thinking. As you learn from an IQ Matrix you will discover that you will far more easily recall the images rather than the words. Yet, the images (because they are associated with the words) will help trigger the content of the IQ Matrix as a whole.
- Guidelines for Reading a IQ Matrix - Reading an IQ Matrix is relatively simple and easy to do if you follow a few simple rules. First of all you must begin reading out from the central image into one of the external branches. As you read along the BLACK branches, gently glide your eyes over them as though moving your eyes down a water slide. When you reach a word or phrase just wash over it with your eyes taking into account any associating images, connector words (the white words posted on the branches) or symbols within it’s proximity. Continue reading down the branch into the thinner branches until you reach an ending, and stop. Also be sure to follow the arrows. They will lead you in the right direction if you are confused at any time. As a general rule you should not jump over broken branches otherwise you could lose the meaning of the information. Another important general rule is to move your eyes from thicker branches to thinner branches and not the other way around. There are however some exceptions to this rule that we will discuss another time. For further information about this reading process, please download the free IQ Matrix Beginner’s Guide from the IQ Matrix Store.
4. Mind Mapping Study Tips for Homework Help and Examinations
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While I was at University, I managed to perfect a method of studying from a Mind Map that dramatically Accelerated my Learning Potential. My learning became easier, was more effective, efficient and for the first time ever, I developed my capacity to achieve photographic memory. This branch of the IQ Matrix details the Mind Mapping methods I utilized using Mindjet MindManager software. I would have loved to show all of you the Mind Maps I created back then, unfortunately I don’t have those files any longer. However, as an alternative I would like to draw your attention to the Litemind website. Luciano regularly creates some absolutely breathtaking Mindjet MindManager Mind Maps summarizing best selling personal development and business books. Please download his latest Mind Map in order to get a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the capabilities of this software package.
- Mind Mapping Software for Homework Help - As discussed above, for the purpose of this example and the discussion that follows I will refer to Mindjet MindManager. However, please bear in mind that there are alternatives available to this software package that are equally as effective and will likewise help you to structure your Mind Maps in a similar fashion. A few other leading examples are NovaMind, Xmind and FreeMind.
- Homework Help Mind Mapping Study Tips - The following process represents the Mind Mapping and note taking methods I utilized on an ongoing basis each semester that effectively prepared my mind for photographic memory and recall. This steps outlined here require that you take your laptop (notebook) with you into class.
Before Class Preparation - Find out what topic you will be discussing in your upcoming class and which textbook chapters you are required to read. Once this has been established, spend some time Speed Reading through the chapters picking up on major heading and important pieces of information that standout in your mind. When finished, begin preparing your Mind Map utilizing your Mind Mapping software package. All you are doing at this stage is mapping out the Major Headings, Sub-Headings and the Keywords that standout in your mind. Be sure to organize and arrange them in a way that helps you to better understand the topic you are about to study.
During Class Expansion - Take your laptop / notebook into class and add notes, expand the branches of your Mind Map even further based on the topics discussed within class.
After Class Assimilation - This should be accomplished the very same day if possible. Simply begin by thoroughly reading through the topic chapter within your textbook and handouts. As you read update your Mind Map with additional notes, headings, sub-headings, keywords and personal opinions. Once you have meticulously pieced this Mind Map together, you are now ready to enhance your memory of this Mind Map to another level. Simply begin by adding the following information to your Mind Map:
- Memorable images to your keyword, major headings and sub-headings.
- Links to relevant computer files such as Word Docs, Excel Spreadsheets, and PowerPoints.
- Links to relevant websites and other information.
- Links to your calendar and tasks (if required).
- Transform your Mind Map by adding different colors to the branches.
- Add relevant symbols that will help you to better identify specific pieces of content.
- Add highlights to specific sections to indicate their relationship or importance.
- Add font differentiations by altering the size, style, look and feel of words. Use Bold, Underlines & Italics.
- Modify the thickness of the lines and give them an organic look and feel.
- Modify the structure of the “word boxes” by changing them into circles, rectangles, etc, as appropriate.
When you are done you might get something looking like this:
This Mind Map is take from the Medici Effect, available as a free download from the Litemind website.
General Guidelines - It is important that you do not follow the content structure of the lecture notes or textbook you are summarizing within your Mind Map. The purpose of a Mind Map is not to simply regurgitate what your lecturer said or the information that the textbook outlined. Instead, your objective is to organize this information in a way that is easy for you to remember and recall. Hence, you might feel the need to connect topics of different chapters in a way on the Mind Map that makes most sense to you. Other times you might in fact decide to copy the same topic into two sections of your Mind Map because this will help you to better understand and comprehend what you are learning.
It is also important that you combine your entire semester’s work (including your lecture notes, assignments, essays, tests, and textbook notes) into one Mind Map. By having all this information in one place, will encourage greater memory and recall of information. However, don’t just settle on throwing this information together every which way. Actually take time to piece it together, to combine seemingly unrelated pieces, and to structure it in a way that is best suited to how you understand the topic. Hence, your final Mind Map should in essence be a reflection of your thoughts and the process of how you think about this subject, and not a regurgitation of what your lecturer said or your textbook presented.
If you are finding this process difficult to understand than please feel free to ask me further questions about it within the comments section of this post.
- Mind Map Examination Study Tips - Having thoroughly prepared your Mind Map based on the instructions presented above, you are now ready to begin the process of revision and study for your examinations. At this stage, you should have everything you need meticulously presented within your Mind Map. All it takes now is to thoroughly go through each of the branches and absorb the content into your long-term memory.
Read through Mind Map Thoroughly - Your first step is to read through your Mind Map thoroughly and meticulously. Go through each branch and follow a similar reading process as was discussed above when I presented you with reading guidelines pertaining to a IQ Matrix.
Introduction to the 3R+T Mind Mapping Study Process - The 3R+T Photographic Memory Mind Map Study Process will help you to thoroughly piece together each branch of your Mind Map in the most effective and efficient manner possible. As you work your way through this process you will slowly but surely (for some people it will be quite rapid) develop the capacity for a photographic memory. As a result, when it comes time to take your examination, you may be pleasantly surprised how proficient you have become at remembering everything you needed to know to excel within this subject area. Let’s break down this process step-by-step, and guide you through its application.
Read - Select one branch of your Mind Map and read it in it’s entirety. As you are reading pay attention to the colors, highlights, symbols, font size, images, etc. Your goal is to associate as much of the content as possible to these physical landmarks on your Mind Map. The more thoroughly you focus and concentrate upon this process, the more effective your results will become. It is also helpful here to set a time limit for this step of the 3R+T Process. This is after all an accelerated learning method, and time constraints are important as they will force your brain to think more efficiently about the material you are studying.
Recall - Now that you have thoroughly read through the first branch of the Mind Map, your next step is to recall it from memory. Simply close your eyes, and picture within your minds-eye the branch you just read through in all its glory. Picture all the landmarks along this branch (images, colors, symbols, highlights, font sizes, etc) that make it standout clearly within the recesses of your mind. Approach this mental journey as though you are walking along a familiar comforting path in a relaxed manner. As you are mentally gliding along this branch see it vividly in your mind and begin describing this journey to yourself out loud. The more emotion you integrate into this process through your mental images and words, the greater amount of neural associations you will stimulate within the recesses of your mind. Again, it is important to set a time limit for this process so that you can move through the entire Mind Map in good time.
Review - Once you have completed your mental journey, simply return to your Mind Map branch and glaze over it with your eyes taking into consideration the segments and sub-branches that you had the most trouble remembering. You may find it helpful at this stage to highlight the sub-branches or words that you found difficult in a vivid and memorable color. This will help these ideas standout in your mind the next time you move through this branch. Take a little time to ponder the branch as a whole before moving into the “Test” phase. Again it is important to set a time limit for this stage.
Test - Once you have reviewed your Mind Map branch, you are now ready to test your knowledge. Testing your knowledge can be accomplished in three ways:
Answering Questions - Here you ask yourself a set of questions about the branch and test to see if you can remember the answer. If you are finding an answer difficult to recall, than simply search for it within your Mind Map, read it over and answer it in your own words. By following this method you will be better able to recall where this answer lies within your Mind Map the next time you transition through this process.
Sketching Mind Map Branch - You can quickly sketch out your Mind Map branch on a piece of paper. This method will help you to stimulate your kinesthetic or physical intelligence, thusly assisting you with far more rapid assimilation of the material you are learning. While you are sketching out your Mind Map pay attention to images, symbols, font differentiations, branch thickness, colors, etc. It is also important that you keep stimulating your auditory senses by talking through your sketch out loud (use a big, emotional and memorable voice). Again, please set a time limit for this process.
Expanding Mind Map Branch - This can only be achieved by utilizing your Mind Mapping software. Most software packages allow you to expand and collapse each of the branch levels. To begin with, collapse all the branch levels so that you can only read the very first major heading. Now recall from memory the sub-headings branching off this major heading. Once recalled, expand the second level or layer of this branch and recall from memory what sub-headings and chunks of information lie within the third layer. Continue this process through the 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, etc layer until you have expanded all of the branches successfully. In conclusion, as you are moving through this process, it is okay to go back and forth to try and remember difficult chunks. But be sure to highlight these difficult to remember sub-branches so that you can return to them at a later time.
Repeat 3R+T Process - Once you have completed one branch, simply continue rotating through all the other branches of your Mind Map moving in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction that same day. Repeat the process for a period of 7 days until fully assimilated - making sure to shorten the “learning time intervals” for each section every day. From personal experience I can confidently say that you can effectively assimilate an entire 500 page textbook (achieving 80% to 99% perfect recall) within a few days of implementing the 3R+T process. If my explanation of this process hasn’t been thorough enough, than please forward me your questions in the comments section below.
Below you will find a jpg file of the rough draft I created about this topic in Mindjet MindManager. The draft doesn’t always reflect or mirror the completed IQ Matrix, however it will provide you with the pattern of thinking that I went through during the creation process. If you have any questions about this, than please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Mind Mapping is an extraordinary journey of awakening that can dramatically transform the way we manage and process information on a daily basis. It will enhance your photographic memory, recall and dramatically improve your chances of Accelerating your Learning Potential. However, having said that, there is no doubt that Mind Mapping isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If for instance you have a preference for auditory learning (see Advanced Multi-Sensory Study Skills for further information), than Mind Mapping will seem very tedious and somewhat difficult to manage and understanding. That’s completely fine. It just means that your brain has been hardwired somewhat differently. You may like to create your Mind Maps and then talk about them aloud as though conducting a presentation. This will help with the integration process of the information you are learning.
For kinesthetically inclined people who like to utilize their hands and get involved in their learning - computer generated Mind Mapping may not be your best and most ideal solution. However, hand drawn Mind Maps may provide a better and far more absorbing alternative that will help you Accelerated your Learning Potential. And as for the rest of us who are visual learners - Mind Mapping is the key to our continued growth, development and progress as we move through the complexities of daily life. Cultivate these principles and assimilate them into your daily habits and patterns of thinking, and you too will benefit as I have from the extraordinary process of Mind Mapping.
I hope you enjoyed this post. Please feel free to share your questions, comments or experiences about Mind Mapping below. I would be interested to hear your insights and perspectives about Mind Mapping and how you utilize it on a daily basis in life, business and academically.
Spotlight on the MasterMind Matrix
The process of Mind Mapping for Accelerated Learning is an important and indispensable component of the MasterMind Matrix.
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The MasterMind Matrix is a Psychological Chart of Personal Success and Achievement. It is used as an effective Self-Coaching tool that will help guide you through the personal obstacles, setbacks and limitations that may stand in your way as you progress towards the attainment of your goals and objectives in the field of academics, business, career, sports, or life in general.
Each IQ Matrix Mind Map that is available through this website represents a single cell fragment of the MasterMind Matrix. For more information and images, visit the MasterMind Matrix page.
Video - How to Mind Map in Extraordinary Ways | Tony Buzan
Further Reading… Recommended Free Articles and Online Resources
Here are a number of highly recommended free articles and online resources that will further help expand your understanding about this topic:
- What is Mind Mapping? (and How to Get Started Immediately) @ Litemind
- How to Mind Map @ JCU
- Using Mind Maps Effectively @ Illumine Training
- How to Mind Map for Study Success @ Learning Fundamentals
- Solve Problems, Study, and Brainstorm Using Mind Maps @ WiseBread
- Mind Map Directory @ Topicscape
- Mind Map Director @ Mappio
- Mind Map Search Directory @ Mind Map Search
- Mindjet MindManager Map Directory @ BiggerPlate
- Mindjet MindManager Enthusiasts Network @ Ning
- Hand Drawn Mind Map Directory @ Mind Map Inspiration
- Software vs Hand Drawn Mind Maps @ Mind Mapping Software Blog
- Business Decision Making Software @ Bcisive
- For more Mind Map resources, please see the links on the sidebar
Recommended Mind Mapping Software
Feel free to try out this software to see if it suits your needs. All of these companies offer a free trial period.
- Mindjet MindManager - Mind Mapping Software with 30 Day Free Trial Period.
- Topicscape - 3D Mind Mapping Software with 30 Day Free Trial Period.
- iMindMap - Tony Buzan’s Mind Mapping Software with 7 Day Free Trial Period.
- NovaMind - Mind Mapping Software with 30 Day Free Trial Period.
- Xmind - Mind Mapping Software with Free Trial Period.
- FreeMind - Free Mind Mapping Software.
Recommended Books from Amazon
- The Mind Map Book: How to Use Radiant Thinking to Maximize Your Brain’s Untapped Potential by Tony Buzan & Barry Buzan
- Mapping Inner Space: Learning & Teaching Visual Mapping by Nancy Marqulies & Nusa Maal
- Idea Mapping: How to Access Your Hidden Brain Power, Learn Faster, Remember More, and Achieve Success in Business by Jamie Nast
- Mindmapping: Your Personal Guide to Exploring Creativity & Problem-Solving by Joyce Wycoff
- Mind Maps at Work: How to Be the Best at Your Job & Still Have Time to Play by Tony Buzan
- Visual Thinking: Tools for Mapping Your Ideas by Nancy Marqulies & Christine Valenza
- Thinking Visually: Business Applications of 14 Core Diagrams by Malcolm Craig
If you would like to download a copy of this IQ Matrix, it is available from the IQ Matrix Shop.
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