IMind Map - real Mind Mapping

Due to the nature of their work, I constantly monitor the emergence and development of tools such as a technique of construction mind maps. Naturally, for the software that implements the techniques also follow. It seemed to me that I know all of these programs. But iMind Map really surprised me. Firstly, because the elephant, I did not notice. Secondly, because the program is much better than counterparts from the point of view of stimulating thinking.

iMind Map

However, it is not surprising - the program is 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 of the company Mindjet. I continue to use it when you need to create a structure. But if I need to find a solution or to reflect, it iMind Map - what you need. What is so special about this program?

A method for constructing mind maps based on visualization and structuring thinking. So, it looks like a map is crucial. Any Mind Mapping - this tree. The tree has a trunk and branches extending from it. The further away from the trunk, the branches are thinner - this simple imaging principle allows you to display the train of thought in the correct order.

Each branch - a separate line or idea that you develop. The thinner portion of the branches, especially new, fresh or it is detailed with respect to the basic idea.

By default, all the main branches of the tree in a different color. It is also important, and makes it possible to separate one idea and the course of its development from the other, while maintaining the overall structure. The color and shape of the branches can be changed at your discretion.

In principle, with branches very convenient to operate. They can drag, stretch, you can change their shape. Two drawing modes determine how the branch will be drawn automatically or by hand. Drawing by hand, you can make any shape branch. In addition, you can even change the picture itself branches. For example, to make it as a road or arrows. Visualization branch - visualization of thoughts.

The branches may also be of two types: a simple (linear) and in the form of a rectangle. In the first version of the text it is at the very branch. In the second case, the text is inside the rectangle. Presentation of the branches in the form of a rectangle is very convenient to display the key thoughts and comments.

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

To enhance the visualization of the image can be used. They can be placed at the very branch to appoint as the base point of a branch or simply placed anywhere. In addition to images, you can branch to label icons, the choice of which is very large in iMind Map. By the way, except for the addition of image files, you can sketch a picture and immediately add it to the map. Just priceless function for brainstorming.

Megakruto that in iMind Map can be added to the flowchart directly into the mind map. I really do not have enough in the same MindManager. Each circuit element may be connected to any element of the whole map.

Very cool feature works automatically restore order. One click, and the card gets the best view from the point of view of the display and placement of elements. So do not worry about the mess when using the card.

We should also talk about the ways of the map.

View project

Like many other software for mind maps, iMind Map allows you to convert the branch to task. And the whole card is a single project. To make it easier to work with a map from the point of view of project management, there is a separate species. In this case, the branch cards are presented in a list indicating the timing, duration and percent complete.

By the way, iMind Map works with the service to conduct tasks Drop Task. I would not say that the view of the project itself will bring great benefits, but keeping small projects in this mode it is possible. But in conjunction with Drop Task - is another matter. Highly I recommend to pay attention to the service itself and to try it in conjunction with iMind Map. Everything looks unusual, very, very cool. But it's probably drawn to a separate article.

3D map

A very unusual presentation mode. The program converts your map in a three-dimensional image that can be rotated according to your preference. It would seem that only a visual trick. But no. Presentation is extremely convenient for presentations and focusing on a particular branch, thought the problem. Unusual, interesting, it adds flavor - in a word, I liked it.

text mode

In this mode, Mind Mapping is presented in the form of structured text. Subparagraphs can expand and collapse. This type, for example, very suitable for use with the alignment of the text. Number of nested sub indefinitely. You can first sketch the structure of the text in the form of cards with notes of key messages and ideas, and then go to the text and is already work with the article. Images and icons in this form is also displayed. More this kind is very useful to prepare for presentations and work with the thesis.

presentation mode

This spectacular and effective presentation mode is not in any program-analogue. Mind Mapping - this is the whole story. iMind Map in presentation mode allows you to tell the story and in the order in which you choose. Before starting the presentation, you can set the display order of branches, commentaries, types of transitions from one branch to another, and more. You can adjust the transitions by clicking the or buttons to set the time display of each branch. You can even loop the presentation, so that it is always displayed, - kiosk mode.

The program offers a set of presentation presentation templates, making it even easier creation. Zooming, transitions, emphasis on the branches - it's all done in just a couple of clicks. The result is a very high quality product. My rating - five out of five.

prioritization mode branches

It is similar to text mode and is a structured text. But the purpose of this mode consists in determining prioritization branches. In this mode, you define the sequence in which your ideas will be presented on the map and presentations. That is, you can do it in the map view by simply dragging branches, and in this mode, changing the levels of the branches in the form of text. In fact, very convenient.

Summary and some chips

• The only software that fully complies with the principles of constructing Mind Mapping and visualization of the process of thinking.
• Developed with the support of the founder of the technique, Tony Buzan.
• Very easy to work on the construction intelligence and change cards.
• Integration with Drop Task allows nehily projects.
• Flexible display settings and presentation.
• Building intelligence card turns into a fascinating process.
• On the site ThinkBuzan you can take a free online training on the construction intelligence cards.
• The software runs on different platforms: Windows, Mac OS X, iOS, Android.
• Integrated optimization of the display card works just magical.
• The best software to prepare presentations on the basis of mind maps.
• Ability to add flowcharts to the card.
• Entirely in Russian.

Finally

In my opinion, iMind Map - the best program for building mind maps. One of a kind program that stimulates thinking. I advise you to try it, there is the benefit of a trial version. program has recently been complemented with new chips and has been updated to version 8. But more about that next time. That's all I wanted to say. ;)

iMind Map