Mind Maps (also called spider maps or cluster maps)
Purpose
Visualize and organize ideas to see how they’re all connected.
How
- Put the main idea or topic in a central bubble
- Supporting points branch off this main idea
- Smaller details can branch off of those supporting points
Use this technique for other writing:
- Poetry: Subject in the middle, ideas around it, details around those
- Memoir: A specific memory in the middle, details and events branching out
- Journal entry: Feeling word in the middle, moments and reflections branching out
- Email: Main message in the middle, subpoints and details branching out
See it in Action!
Watch
Mind mapping – simple guide
This video gives a quick overview of how to create a mind map by starting with a main idea and branching out. It’s a simple, visual explanation that shows how mind maps can help organize ideas before writing.
Watch here
Organize main ideas and supporting points
This short segment highlights how to use a mind map to organize key ideas before writing. It focuses on getting your main idea down and connecting it to supporting points in a visual way.
Timestamp: 2:17 – 2:38
Watch here
Practice
Example of a mind map with a tutor think-aloud
Watch a tutor think through a writing topic using a mind map. You’ll see how they build and revise their ideas as they go, using the map to stay focused and flexible.
Timestamp: 9:47 – 13:15
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Writing for Results – NWT Literacy
Want to see more types of mind maps? You’ll find examples of these visual organizers:
- Spider map
- Ladder map
- Flowchart map
- Systems map
Learn More
How to create a mind map for writing, blogging, and more
This video shows how mind maps can be used beyond just school assignments. It offers practical steps for mapping out ideas whether you're writing an article, blog post, or story.
Watch here
Add Complexity
Creative Writing: Short essay on my best friend through mind map
See how a student uses a mind map to plan a personal essay. This is a great example of how mind mapping supports writing with real-life details and emotional connections.