We really like this definition of a mind map by David Sparks (aka MacSparky) from a Mac Power Users episode on Cooking Ideas: It allows any idea to be connected with another at any time, and helps you see connections that you wouldn’t have otherwise. Think of it as the right-brained version of a standard outline that is perfect for “radiant thinking,” an idea popularized by Tony Buzan. The basic idea is that you start with a central idea and build branches (or “nodes”) around it.
What is a Mind Map, Anyway?Ī mind map is a diagram that connects information around a central topic or subject. There are several attractive options for Apple users looking for a mind mapping app to help capture, develop, and organize their ideas, but we think that MindNode is the best because it has a beautiful design that helps get your ideas flowing, is easy to use, has rock-solid sync, and has enough import/export options to be a really useful tool in almost any productivity workflow.