Mind map examples for study, writing and planning

A useful mind map starts with one clear question. Use these examples as a starting point, then change the branches to fit your own thinking.

Research planWhat am I trying to learn?SourcesWhat's already known?MethodHow do I test it?QuestionsWhat's still unclear?FindingsWhat holds up?

Research plan

For a question that needs investigation, separate sources, methods, open questions and findings.

Example structure 01

Study notes

Turn a topic into a review map that shows what you know and what to revisit.

Cell biology

  • Cell parts

    • Membrane
    • Nucleus

  • Processes

    • Energy
    • Division

  • Review

    • Explain from memory
    • Questions to revisit

Example structure 02

Article outline

Collect the main claim, supporting points and evidence before drafting.

Should cities plant more trees?

  • Main claim

    • Shade and comfort
    • Long-term investment

  • Evidence

    • Heat data
    • Street observations

  • Counterpoints

    • Water use
    • Maintenance

Example structure 03

Project plan

Make a project easier to act on by grouping outcomes, tasks and open questions.

Launch a community newsletter

  • Audience

    • Readers
    • Needs

  • Work

    • Collect stories
    • Edit
    • Publish

  • Next steps

    • Choose a schedule
    • Assign an owner

How to make a mind map from an example

  1. Write one topic or question in the centre.
  2. Add a few branches for the main parts of the topic.
  3. Break each branch into short notes, evidence or actions.
  4. Rearrange, rename or remove branches as your understanding changes.

Explore practical mind map examples for study notes, article outlines, project plans and research. See how to build each map in HMind.

Explore HMind featuresWhat is a mind map?