Freeware - FreeMind

If you like to diagram your note taking or brainstorming, you may find mind-mapping techniques are suited to the way you work. (If you are not familiar with mind-mapping, you can learn about it at Wikipedia.)

There is a variety of good software available for creating mind maps on your computer. One of the best products available is FreeMind, which you can download and use at no cost. FreeMind is written in Java and requires the Java Runtime Environment be installed on your computer.

Chuck Frey has written a detailed review of FreeMind at InnovationTools.com.

From the book The Mind Map Book, by Tony Buzan

These are the foundation structures of a Mind Map, although these are open to free interpretation by the individual:

1. Start in the centre with an image of the topic, using at least 3 colours.
2. Use images, symbols, codes and dimensions throughout your Mind Map.
3. Select key words and print using upper or lower case letters.
4. Each word/image must be alone and sitting on its own line.
5. The lines must be connected, starting from the central image. The central lines are thicker, organic and flowing, becoming thinner as they radiate out from the centre.
6. Make the lines the same length as the word/image.
7. Use colours your own code throughout the Mind Map.
8. Develop your own personal style of Mind Mapping.
9. Use emphasis and show associations in your Mind Map.
10. Keep the Mind Map clear by using radial hierarchy, numerical order or outlines to embrace your branches.