Mind maps
Also written: Mind mapping
A diagram that visually organizes information, showing connections between ideas starting from a central concept.
Mind maps are visual tools that help you organize thoughts and information. You start with a main idea in the center and then draw lines to related subtopics, creating a branching structure.
Think of it like a family tree for your ideas. For example, if your central topic is 'planning a vacation,' you might branch out to 'destination,' 'budget,' 'activities,' and 'packing.' Each of those branches can then have further sub-branches like 'flights,' 'hotels,' or 'beach gear.'
Mind maps are hierarchical graphical representations used for knowledge management and brainstorming. They typically feature a single, central concept from which radiating branches represent increasingly specific sub-topics and associated information. This structure facilitates associative thinking and aids in understanding complex relationships within a domain.
Their effectiveness stems from their resemblance to natural thought processes, leveraging visual cues and spatial organization to enhance memory and recall. While simple to create, their utility can be limited in representing highly complex or non-hierarchical data structures without becoming unwieldy.
Microsoft Copilot Notebooks is expanding, allowing users to collaborate on projects using shared mind maps. This feature integrates visual organization directly into AI-assisted workflows, making it easier to brainstorm and structure complex tasks with AI.
- What’s New in Notebooks | June 2026Microsoft · Microsoft 365 Copilot Blog ·
- Microsoft Copilot
- Microsoft Copilot Notebooks uses mind maps for shared project collaboration, allowing users to visually organize and brainstorm ideas within the AI assistant.
- Concept map
- Concept maps show relationships between concepts using nodes and la
- Flowchart
- Flowcharts illustrate a process or workflow with a sequence of steps
- Outline
- An outline is a linear, hierarchical list of topics and subtopics, typi
The concept of mind mapping was popularized by British psychologist Tony Buzan in the 1970s. He developed it as a creative thinking and learning tool based on how the brain naturally makes associations. Source ↗
Open Microsoft Copilot Notebooks and start a new notebook. Try creating a central topic like 'AI Trends' and then add branches for 'Large Language Models,' 'Generative Art,' and 'AI Ethics.' See how you can add sub-branches to explore each topic further visually.
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Questions people ask
- How do I create a mind map?
- You can create a mind map by hand on paper or using digital tools. Start with a central idea, then draw branches for main topics, and add sub-branches for supporting details.
- What are mind maps used for?
- Mind maps are used for brainstorming, note-taking, planning, problem-solving, and studying. They help visualize complex information and improve memory.
First seen on Subvolts Jun 11, 2026. Updated Sep 15, 2026. Written by an AI model from the items above and reviewed against them weekly; report an error.