Mind mapping — the use of visual representations to map out your thoughts and plans — is hardly new. After all, humans have been taking notes for centuries. However, with the rise of certain tools dedicated singularly to this function, are some better than others? Here are a few we found most helpful.
Scapple
Created by the same minds behind Scrivener, Scapple is an OS X-friendly tool directed at writers. There are no hard and fast rules, so you can begin mapping without any singular goals or thoughts in mind. Just start typing and see what happens, then adjust, re-adjust and link up later. Your notes could be text, photos or really any file. Scapple starts at $15.
Coggle
With a free version and a pleasing aesthetic, Coggle is a nice and simple start for beginners. It’s a Chrome extension that saves your work in a browser and the free version allows for unlimited maps. Features include color coding, detailed note taking, no image limits, collaboration with team members, history tracking, a chat function for teams and more.
Sketchboard
If you don’t think you can replace the feel of mapping out your mind on a good old-fashioned whiteboard, Sketchboard might be a good fit for you. Like a collaborative, online whiteboard, it can be integrated with tools you probably already use, like Google Drive and Slack. You can use it for free if your team is made up of five or less users.
MindNode
Created as an app specifically for iOS devices, MindNode is great if you plan to use your mind-mapping tool on your phone or tablet, rather than your computer. It works well on touchscreens and you can just use your fingertips to drop and drag branches, notes, documents and more. Hide nodes you don’t need, embed photos, create node links and enjoy a clean UI. The program is $20 for Mac usage and $10 for iPhone or iPad use.
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