The best way to take a look at the pros and cons of practical mind maps is to compare them to normal mind maps and computer mind maps. Practical mind maps are a practical system that can be used on a computer but also on paper.
The first thing that people who learn about practical mind maps tell me is that it is very easy to use. They (literally) create summaries in less than a minute. And this overview gets you through the whole week, or even longer!
In what areas of your life do you use it?
Many people use mind maps in one of three areas: personal, academic/educational, and professional/business. Most people use mind maps to take notes. This may be clarifying your thoughts, taking business notes, or during a conference or meeting. All three types of mapping (traditional, computerized, and practical) can be used in these situations.
There is a big difference when you use your maps to study. Traditional maps rely heavily on images and colorful branches. This is often done with computer maps as well. Practical mind maps do not use (m) any images. They use colors to create a memorable overview. Using only colors and no images may not seem good enough when creating visual overviews, but maps really stick in your mind! The advantage of the practical map is definitely the ease with which you create the maps. A disadvantage could be that the map is not that ‘image’ as a traditional user of mind maps would like.
Implementation speed!
Have you ever created a mind map? People I interviewed told me that it usually takes a long time to create a traditional or computer mind map. Especially the images! Most people who stop mind mapping tell me it’s because mind mapping takes too long.
One of the techniques used in the practical mind mapping system is the one minute mind map. Yes, in less than a minute, you create a mental map. This map shows you exactly what you need to know. A disadvantage of this could be that you miss some information. The people I have trained to use this system have never experienced this. And let’s be honest… every system can have this scam :).
Actually using the maps
When you create a traditional mind map, when you’re done, you’re done. The map is ready and will only be reviewed. This is fine for some purposes. However, most of the time, you want the map to reflect the current state or desired situation. You want your map information to be alive and ready to grow with you!
The computer’s mind map allows you to do this, as those maps automatically draw when you change them.
A handy mind map will do that on your computer (of course), but also on paper! This makes it the ideal tool to use the information, update it and make it reflect the current status of your notes, meeting, project, etc.
In general, practical mind maps are tools that help you especially well in situations like project management, personal development, goal setting, studying, and capturing ideas. They may not be as easy to use in presentations (due to their personal nature).
The next time you are looking for an easy tool to help you capture a lot of information, thoughts and ideas, take a look at handy mind maps. It will save you time and help you move forward.
