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A mind map is a diagram of your understanding of a subject. A mind map can be used for studying, for thinking about and discussing a topic, for planning, and more. Use a mind map when you are designing during the UNDERSTAND stage. Note down your understanding of the design topic, and what you need to know. Write, use signs, and little drawings, whatever you need.

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FIGURE: A mind map that shows important aspects of ‘food packaging.’ This mind map describes the materials used, labelling, as well as the benefits and problems of food packaging.

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​​​​​​​What you need

• You can map alone, but drawing a mind map in a group of around three to five designers will normally give better results.
• Paper, A4 size or bigger; or you may use a chalkboard or whiteboard.
• Coloured pens or pencils.

How it’s done

• Write the title of the mind map in a block in the centre of the page. For example, write ‘Food Packaging’ if that is your design topic.
• Branch out from the centre with lines, noting what you know about the topic.
• Write down your questions about the topic too.
• Add little drawings to make your mind map memorable.
• Check your mind map.
  • Have you covered the topic adequately?
  • Is there anything you need to add?

​​​​​​​Tips

• You may enlarge your mind map by taping more paper to the side of your map.
• Once your initial mind map is complete, it’s a good idea to re-draw it in a neat and organised way.
• Add colour using coloured pens or pencil to liven up your map.
• Record you mind map for safekeeping by scanning it or photographing it.