A program for constructing mental maps. Happy map: review of online services for mind mapping

Anyone who has used mind-mapping technology at least once knows how convenient, multitasking and simple it is. Apparently this is why the compilation of intelligence maps (or mental maps) is beginning to enjoy such popularity. Mind maps are used to record ideas, associations; They help to brainstorm, plan work within the project, create a short business analysis of the situation, and are also used for making notes, recording theses from books and magazines read.

We offer a fresh selection of 8 excellent programs for creating mind maps. We are confident that these programs will help you use mind-mapping technology 100%. In the selection you will find many free applications and you can easily choose the best option for yourself.

And if you haven’t used the mind mapping method in your work until today, it’s time to try it!

Coggle

Coggle is a free online application that supports collaboration on projects. In this program you can develop convenient, beautiful mental maps. The program's interface is simple, but at the same time it has many functions that make the process of creating a mind map incredibly simple. The program supports the use of images, custom color schemes and the ability to view document history. Keeping a history of changes allows you to revert to earlier versions of the map you created if you get stuck in the current version. Mind-maps created in Coggle can be exported in PNG or PDF format.

Xmind

XMind is a popular cross-platform mind mapping program that runs on Windows/Mac/Linux platforms. The program has several versions: free with reduced capabilities and paid with expanded functionality. One of the main advantages of the program is its support and compatibility with the Microsoft Office suite. And a nice addition is the program’s ability to work with Gantt charts.

Freemind

The program is an open, free application that runs on any platform that supports Java. In general, the program has all the necessary set of functions to create high-quality mind maps. The only drawback of the program is the outdated design of intelligence cards.

— paid application for creating mind maps on Mac/IOS. The program has a modern minimalistic design and is very easy to use. It supports integration with all Apple devices and works well on both iPad and mobile versions. The application allows you to export created mind maps in the following formats: JPG, PDF, TIFF, text formats, and also supports exporting mind maps to the format of the competing program Freemind.

For users unfamiliar with the program, a trial version of the program with a limited set of MindNode Lite functions is available.

BubblUs

Bubble.us is a free web application for online mind mapping. The application allows you to create simple mind-maps and export them in image format. The functionality of the program in comparison with the simple solutions MindNode and Coggle seems a little sophisticated, but still the program solves the problem and creates good mind maps. The program runs on flash and will not work on smartphones.

The program is a paid online application for compiling mind maps. Provides several options for subscription fees, and also provides the opportunity to use the program for free. For free, you can build 3 mind maps with limited export capabilities. The application has a user-friendly interface and the entire necessary set of functions, which allows you to understand the simplicity and convenience of smart card technology. The disadvantage of the program is that it can only be fully used if you pay regularly, so it is more suitable for those who use mind maps regularly. The program is Russified.

Mapul

is a free online application for creating mind maps, running on open source HTML5. The program can be used directly on the developers’ website, or you can download the open source code of the program and install it on your own web server. The application has a full range of functions for working with smart map technology.

Hello everyone guys!

I am immediately publishing the second part of the article about creating mind maps.

But last time we considered an easy option using an online service. This time, the attack is guarded by a program for creating intelligence maps, or rather 2 programs. Let's look at the 2 most popular solutions in this area.

Why do we need intelligence maps and what is it anyway? I wrote in. If you need these answers, then click on the previous link and master it. And we will immediately jump into the water and start looking at programs.

Xmind program

The program is not bad. The main advantage is that it is free. We can safely use the standard functionality without paying a penny. There is also a PRO version of the program, in which more advanced functions are available:

Export to all major formats
Adding a Brainstorming Module
Adding business tools and others.

As regular users, we can do without this. Export will be enough for us in the form of a simple picture to give a graphic image to our visitors or friends.

Functionality that is not available to us will be marked with Pro.

You can safely download the program from the official website at this link by clicking the button to download.

We install the program on the computer, like all other software. The procedure is standard. Next, launch Xmind through the shortcut, which is added to the desktop by default.

The first thing we see after launch is the program window with the ability to immediately create a new project in the form of an empty template, that is, create a mind map from scratch, or choose one of the ready-made templates with individual design.

Since we need to understand the principle of creating mind maps, we choose a blank template to start from scratch. Having mastered the basic functions, you will be able to edit previously provided templates without any problems.

After selecting a template, the program worksheet will have a root section of the map called “Central Section”. To rename it, you need to double-click on it. The name will be highlighted and you can change the name. I'll call it "For example".

All sections with subsections are renamed in the same way.

To add branches in the form of subsections, you need to double-click in the empty area. A block called “Floating Section” will be added. But here's one note. There may be no connections between blocks if they are far from each other.

As we can see, there is no connection (connection) between them. If we move the floating section a little closer to the center section, a connection appears.

The program itself determines which section the subsection will be linked to. She chooses the shortest path. Whichever section is closer to that is the subject of the subsection. This is how you need to connect all the blocks in the program. Simply drag all the blocks with the mouse and connect them together.

This may seem difficult. But everything couldn’t be simpler. See for yourself.

Having completed simple machinations, I created 3 more subsections and added 4 branches in each of them to further demonstrate the possibility of creating mind maps in Xmind.

That’s the whole principle of creating mind maps in this program. It remains only to consider some design aspects in order to give a beautiful look to our information.

To do this, there are 2 panels in the right area of the program:

A panel with the “Outline” and “Overview” tabs, in which we can see the hierarchy of sections in the created mind map, and navigate the map accordingly;

A panel with the “Properties” and “Markers” tabs, where we can customize the appearance and structure of the mind map.

Everything in the tab is quite simple. Registration is carried out as follows. First, we select the desired element in the map, then go to the “Properties” tab and put what we want there. Change the rift, size, frame and fill color of the section. This is all clear and I see no point in explaining.

The only interesting thing is the “Structure” item, which determines the location of sections and subsections in the mind map.

Each time we can make mind maps of different structure so that there is variety. This point is worth taking into account.

The marker tab should also be used for decoration. Using them, you can give a sequence of actions in the map and show the progress of tasks. For example, I outlined such a plan using markers.

After creating a map, you need to export it in order to have a ready-made file on your computer. This is done through the "File - Export" menu.

After this, an image of the mind map will appear on your computer, which you can give to your friends or upload to the website. Well, or just use it for your needs.

I told and showed you all the main points about this program. Absolutely nothing is difficult. We created sections - connected them together - designed them.

Now you can move on to the second software, which can be safely called “monster intelligence cards”.

Mind Manager

I didn't just call her a monster. After all, it is a market leader in its functionality. And the price is scary - about 400 euros for the regular version of the program. There is a 30-day free version of the program that can be downloaded Here.

The cost of the program is simply prohibitive and there is no point in purchasing it just for the preparation of mind maps.

If intelligence maps are a tool that you cannot do without and all your activities (structuring information, making plans, preparing, and so on) are based on them, then think about purchasing software. Spend once and use smart cards to the fullest, as you have never used them before.

In general, even if you do not purchase MindManager, I still recommend installing it and using it for 30 days. In addition, I will now explain the main points in working with it. You can make yourself a bunch of mind maps.

I’ll duplicate it here again link to download the program from the official website. You can download this tool from it, or from any other resource. There are a sea of sites in RuNet where it is located. You just need to enter data to download on the official website. Yes, and you may find some broken version (at your own peril and risk), which will allow you to use it without restrictions.

Now, perhaps, let's launch the program and create a mind map.

By the way, what else is special about the program, why did I call it a monster? Yes, it eats up computer resources. Even on my powerful laptop, it gets a little slow from time to time.

When you first start the program, there will be a welcome window. It is advisable to put a checkbox in the lower area of the program so that it is no longer displayed, since it will be annoying if you use the software frequently.

This area will no longer be an eyesore for us.

Let's start creating a mind map right away. This is done through the “File - new” menu and, as always, there are 2 creation options:

A blank sheet, that is, creation from scratch;
Select from a ready-made template.

Select an empty template.

After creating an empty sheet, immediately, as in all previous cases, there will be a root section (Central topic), which can be renamed by double-clicking on it.

Adding subsections is done in the same way as in Xmind, by double-clicking on an empty area. Only the blocks will be automatically linked to the central topic. I will create 4 sections.

I won't rename anything. If necessary, do it yourself.

To add branches of a lower level, that is, to subsections, you should already use the panel in the upper area of Mindmanager by clicking on the "Subtopic" icon.

To do this, we must be active on the section to which we want to add a subsection. Here's what I created as an example using this button.

In this way we can create a hierarchy of probably an infinite number of levels.

A useful feature is adding notes to sections and subsections. This is necessary if you are doing a short outline of something. You need to write the main idea, some spontaneous ideas, and so on. Keep it simple. On the "Insert" tab, select the "Notes" function, having previously made the desired section active, and enter a note. After that, it will be available by clicking on the icon next to the topic.

Here you can make some topic of active links to a site or a folder on your computer.

Pictures are also added here. You can choose from the program library or upload your own.

The first point is to upload a picture from a computer;
The second is for inserting from the program library, which will be available in the right area of the program.

Icons (markers) are also located here.

On the next tab "Design" we can customize the appearance of the mind map. Starting from the background of the sheet, ending with the lines of connections between sections.

The only problem can be the lack of basic knowledge of English. But from the pictures everything is intuitively clear what each button does. Particularly interesting, as in the previous program, is the structure display setting. It is available under the "Growth" button.

The same display settings are available from the context menu of any topic.

Each tab has specific settings for each part of the topic. The structure, line type and thickness, the shape of the topic and its fill - all this is in the tabs.

It is also worth mentioning the designation of topics to prioritize between them and indicate progress on each item (if this is a plan). This is done on the "Home" tab.

I reviewed the main functions of the program. Now you know how to create a mind map, design it, and optionally have the concept of setting progress and priorities using the appropriate points for the necessary tasks. If you make any plans using mind maps, then use this tool.

The last step is to learn how to export mind maps to the final file. This can be done easily through the "File - Save as" menu. Next, simply select the save location, format and enter the file name.

If you just need to create a mind map for some purposes, then the things described in 2 articles are quite enough. If you need a full-fledged technique that will become your assistant in the video of this tool, then you need to be able to use the MindManager program on your own.

In the near future, I will start working on a full-fledged course that will be dedicated to mind maps. I will analyze all the capabilities of the main programs provided in this article, as well as similar analogues. Not only the main functions will be considered, but also an example of full-fledged task planning using this tool. I will show you everything and tell you in great detail.

I don’t really want to say goodbye to you, but I have to. The article was large and informative. Imagine if I combined the previous and this article together. This would be the longest guide to creating mind maps on the Internet.

In conclusion, I would like to hear your opinion about intelligence cards in general. Maybe you use some other programs and services? If so, write in the comments. We will review your tools in new materials.

All friends! Goodbye!

Best regards, Konstantin Khmelev!

An intelligence map, or mental maps (mind-maps) is a display of an effective way to think, memorize, remember, solve creative problems, as well as the ability to present and visually express your internal information processing processes, make changes to them, and improve them. Mind maps are a tool that allows you to:

It’s easier to work with information: remember, understand, restore logic.
convenient to use for presenting material and visually explaining your position to interlocutors
makes it easier to make decisions, create plans, develop projects.

offers a fresh selection of 8 great mind mapping programs. We are confident that these programs will help you use mind-mapping technology 100%. In the selection you will find many free applications and you can easily choose the best option for yourself.

1. Google

2. Xmind

3. Freemind

4. MindNode

MindNode is a paid application for creating mind maps on Mac / IOS. The program has a modern minimalistic design and is very easy to use. It supports integration with all Apple devices and works well on both iPad and mobile versions. The application allows you to export created mind maps in the following formats: JPG, PDF, TIFF, text formats, and also supports exporting mind maps to the format of the competing program Freemind. For users unfamiliar with the program, a trial version of the program with a limited set of MindNode Lite functions is available.

5. BubblUs

Bubble.us is a free web application for online mind mapping. The application allows you to create simple mind-maps and export them in image format. The functionality of the program in comparison with simple solutions MindNode and Coggle seems a little sophisticated, but still the program solves the problem and creates good mind maps. The program runs on flash and will not work on smartphones.

6. Mind Meister

MindMeister is a paid online mind mapping application. Provides several options for subscription fees, and also provides the opportunity to use the program for free. For free, you can build 3 mind maps with limited export capabilities. The application has a user-friendly interface and the entire necessary set of functions, which allows you to understand the simplicity and convenience of smart card technology. The disadvantage of the program is that it can only be fully used with regular payments, so it is more suitable for those who use mind maps regularly. The program is Russified.

7. Mapul

Mapul is a paid online application for creating mind maps. Like MindMeister, Mapul operates on a monthly subscription basis. The program stands out among all other applications with its fancy mind map design.

8. WiseMapping

WiseMapping is a free online mind mapping application running on HTML5 open source code. The program can be used directly on the developers’ website, or you can download the open source code of the program and install it on your own web server. The application has a full range of functions for working with smart card technology.

Due to the specifics of my activity, I constantly monitor the emergence and development of tools like construction techniques. Naturally, I also keep an eye on the software that implements the techniques. It seemed to me that I knew all these programs. But iMind Map really surprised me. Firstly, because I didn’t even notice the elephant. Secondly, because the program is much better than its analogues precisely from the point of view of stimulating thinking.

However, it is not surprising - the program was made and is under the patronage of the founder of this technique, Tony Buzan. Until now, I have used the most advanced and popular solution - Mind Manager from Mindjet. I continue to use it when I need to create structure. But if I need to find a solution or think, iMind Map is what I need. What's so special about this program?

The method of constructing mind maps is based on visualization and structuring of thinking. This means how the map looks is critical. Any mind map is a tree. A tree has a trunk and branches extending from it. The further from the trunk, the thinner the branches become - this simple visualization principle allows you to display the train of thoughts in the correct order.

Each branch is a separate direction or thought that you develop. The thinner the branch section, the more new, fresh, or detailed it is in relation to the main idea.

By default, all main branches of the tree have different colors. This is also important and allows you to separate one thought and the course of its development from another, while maintaining the overall structure. The color and shape of the branches can be changed at your discretion.

In principle, branches are very convenient to work with. They can be dragged, stretched, and their shape can be changed. Two drawing modes determine how the branch will be drawn: automatically or freehand. By drawing by hand, you can give the branch any shape. In addition, you can even change the design of the branch itself. For example, make it in the form of a road or an arrow. Visualization of a branch - visualization of thought.

Branches can also be of two types: simple (linear) and rectangular. In the first option, the text is located on the branch itself. In the second case, the text is inside the rectangle. Representing a branch as a rectangle is very useful for displaying key thoughts and comments.

The branches can be connected to each other; there are separate arrows for this.

Images can be used to enhance visualization. They can be placed on the branch itself, designated as the branch's base point, or simply placed anywhere. In addition to pictures, branches can be marked with icons, the choice of which is quite large in iMind Map. By the way, in addition to adding files with pictures, you can sketch an image and immediately add it to the map. Simply an invaluable function for brainstorming.

What's super cool is that iMind Map allows you to add flowcharts directly to your mind map. I really miss this in MindManager. Each element of the diagram can be connected to any element of the entire map.

The automatic tidying function works very well. One click, and the map takes on the optimal appearance in terms of display and placement of elements. So you don't have to worry about making a mess when working with the card.

We should also talk about the ways of presenting the map.

Project type

Like many other mind mapping software, iMind Map allows you to turn branches into tasks. And the entire map represents a single project. To make it more convenient to work with the map from a project management point of view, a separate view is provided. In this case, the branches of the map are presented in the form of a list indicating deadlines, duration and percentage of completion.

By the way, iMind Map works with the task management service Drop Task. I wouldn’t say that the type of project itself will bring much benefit, but running small projects in this mode is quite possible. But in conjunction with Drop Task it’s a completely different matter. I highly recommend paying attention to the service itself and trying it in conjunction with iMind Map. Everything looks unusual, very, very cool. But this probably deserves a separate article.

3D map

A very unusual presentation mode. The program converts your map into a three-dimensional image that you can rotate as you wish. It would seem that it is just a visual feature. But no. The presentation is extremely convenient for conducting and focusing attention on a particular branch, thought, or task. Unusual, interesting, adds zest - in a word, I liked it.

Text mode

In this mode, the mind map is presented in the form of structured text. Sub-items can be collapsed and expanded. This view, for example, is very convenient for working with text alignment. The number of nested sub-items is infinite. You can first sketch out the structure of the text in the form of a map with notes on the main theses and ideas, and then switch to text mode and already. Pictures and icons are also displayed in this view. This type is also very convenient for preparing for a presentation and working with abstracts.

Presentation mode

Such a spectacular and effective presentation mode is not available in any analogue program. The mind map is a whole story. iMind Map in presentation mode allows you to tell this story in the way and order you choose. Before starting the presentation, you can configure the order in which branches are displayed, comments on them, types of transitions from one branch to another, and much more. You can customize key click transitions or set the display time for each branch. You can even loop the presentation so that it is shown constantly - kiosk mode.

The program offers a set of presentation templates, which makes its creation even easier. Scaling, transitions, accents on branches - all this is done in just a couple of clicks. The result is a very high quality product. My rating is five out of five.

Branch order mode

Similar to text mode and represents structured text. But the purpose of this mode is precisely to determine the order of branches. In this mode, you determine the order in which your ideas will be presented on the map and in. That is, you can do this both in map mode, simply dragging branches, and in this mode, changing the levels of branches in the form of text. It's actually very convenient.

Summary and some tips

The only software that fully complies with the principles of constructing mind maps and visualizing the thinking process.
Developed with the support of the founder of the technique, Tony Buzan.
Very convenient work on building and changing a mind map.
Integration with Drop Task allows you to manage large projects.
Flexible display and presentation settings.
Building mind maps turns into a fun process.
ThinkBuzan offers free online training on mind mapping.
The program works on different platforms: Windows, Mac OS X, iOS, Android.
The built-in map display optimization works like magic.
The best software for preparing presentations based on mind maps.
Possibility of adding block diagrams to the map.
Completely in Russian.

Finally

In my opinion, iMind Map is the best mind mapping program. The only program of its kind that stimulates... I highly recommend trying it, fortunately there is a trial version. Recently the program was supplemented with new features and updated to version 8. But more on that next time. That's all I wanted to say. ;)

Mindmaps are a great tool for planning and managing ideas. Want to prepare an agenda for your annual conference or plan your work schedule? Make a SWOT analyzing a company, developing business processes or preparing a development strategy? Use free ones tools to create mind maps.

This is a desktop tool available for Windows and Mac. In the free plan Lite There are 25 templates available for creating mind maps.

You can use this service even without registration. has n Easy to use drag'n drop interface.

In the free plan you can create 3 m indmap. For every friend you inviteprovides the ability to create one mind map at a time. The site has about 60 standard templates.

Draw

Absolutely free tool with no restrictions. This service is available to users both online and in desktop version. You can save ready-made mental maps in Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, Gi t Hub, Trello or direct download to your computer in the following formats: png, jpeg, svg, pdf, html, vsdx, xml, url.

A free plan is provided for one account. Users of such credentials cannot create mind maps with more than 60 objects. Otherwise, free accounts, like paid ones, have access to an extensive database of templates and can work on documents together with other participants.

Free accounts will be given 6 months of free use of the online tool. In the service you can not only create mind maps, but also manage projects. INThe possibility of team work on documents has been implemented. The finished mental map can be published on social networks: Twitter, Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

M ind42

The capabilities of this tool are modest compared to others. Users have access to only one font and block type. Map branches cannot be changed at your discretion. M ind42 is a simple service without unnecessary tricks. If you need to quickly make a simple mind map, then this tool will come in handy.

X mind

A beta version of the desktop program is available for free use. The test version includes 30 mind map templates and 89 stickers. Text formatting is available in the editor Markdown. The finished mental map can be exported to pdf format.

M indjet