Visual Productivity

When you look at it, it just makes sense!

Mind Mapping

I’m a Certified XMind Master – Here’s How it Benefits You

certified xmind master

I've got some great news to share. I've just been approved by the folks over at XMind to become a Certified XMind Master. I'm one of the first.

How does that help you?

The best part of being a Certified XMind Master is that it's going to benefit all of us.

You'll now be able to get 30% off of all the products on XMind's site by using my coupon code.

Let's talk about what 30% means

Let me explain the 30%.

XMind Pro is “listed” at $129, so 30% off is $90.30. That's the number you need to remember.

XMind usually sells for $99. If you buy for $90.30, you'll see a savings of around 8.8% compared to the usual price.

I plan on maintaining the EXTRA bonus

We'll also be changing up how we sell XMind products on VisualProductivity.com. Now, you can simply go to XMind's site and plug in my coupon code. You'll get the software right away, and then we'll figure out how to get you a bonus (besides the 30% off). I'm still trying to confirm the exact details with them, but I'm hoping that the receipt you get from them will have a reference to me on it somewhere (if my code was used). I'm hoping you'll be able to forward the receipt to me and then I'll get you setup with the Visual Mapping Quickstart – just like we've been doing. The only difference will be a cheaper price for you and a faster experience.

I've always hated making you guys wait for the code, so this will reduce some stress for me too – especially on weekend orders.

OK, so where's the coupon code?

I'm still getting things setup with XMind for the coupon code, I'll obviously get things changed over pretty quickly once I get it. Keep an eye out.

I'll make it available on YouTube, here on the site, and anywhere else that's relevant as soon as I can.

Other certified XMind master perks

It looks like I'll also get a chance to be featured on their webpage too. I'll likely have some videos put up there, which will be great.

I'll also have higher priority for the request and suggestions that I send them. I know they take all suggestions, but I think we can work with this to get some of the best productivity ideas added to future versions. I love when you share suggestions and difficulties you're having with the current version and I'm looking forward to helping to send more ideas over to XMind in the future.

I'll keep you informed as I know more.

XMind Review – What’s new in XMind 7.5

xmind review

It's time for my latest XMind review. This is for XMind 7.5, which was released near the beginning of summer 2016.

XMind 8 is probably right around the corner, so I need to get this review out. I know I've turned into the XMind guy for a lot of people. That's not really my goal, but I've put out more than 50 videos on the software, so I guess I know what I'm talking about.

I've done a lot of XMind reviews over the years. I've been using the program since 2007. That means I've seen a lot of changes. I have to say that I think the XMind 7.5 has brought a lot of really good stuff to the table. There were a lot of refinements, which are always good, a few things that I feel are slightly negative, and the huge benefit of them adding online editing and file storage.

Let's get into the video review first, and then I'll talk more about some of the highlights.

XMind review video

YouTube link

 

Do you want to follow along

I've made the map I used for this XMind review available online. I'm trying to decide if I should do this with all of my reviews. Let me know whether you're interested in being able to download maps like this going forward.

Here's a link to the map (XMind format) if you want a copy for yourself.

 

The best addition to XMind 7.5

The reason why XMind released a new version half way through through their yearly cycle was to add a cloud component to their system.

I do want to mention that the cloud component of XMind is only available to XMind Pro owners, so unfortunately, it's not part of the free or Plus versions of the software.

OK. Let's get back into it…

The cloud component does two things. It allows you to both save and edit your workbooks online.

Every XMind Pro owner who purchased either version 7 or 7.5 gets 1 gigabyte of storage space to save their files. This ability to save now lets you more easily share your maps between different computers. It allows you to make changes on your work computer, and then go home and modify what you've worked on without having to worry that the changes won't be synced.

I've suggested ways to do this in the past, but a built-in option is the simplest way to do it.

The second feature included as part of the cloud update is the ability to update your maps online. The ability to update via the web means it allows you to login from anywhere and make changes to your maps. The best part of this is that this allows you to login using your phone or tablet. It's not quite a mobile app yet, but it gives you some more options for when you want to access your information from your mobile.

The cloud implementation seems like it's likely one of the last steps before we see a native XMind app. I'm just speculating when I write this, but I believe that an app version of XMind is probably coming soon.

What I like

The video version of this XMind review covers several other features that I really like. I've listed them below for your reference.

If you'd like to skip right to this part, it's at 5:33 of the video.

  • Cleaner Look
  • New tiles
  • Like the red indicator when moving topics
  • Right click and hold to move map
  • Resource bundles – Plus feature
  • Can hide or show the + and – when printing as an image

Areas to improve

There are some things in the latest version that I think could still be refined more. These are also covered in the video.

This section of the video begins at 7:53.

  • I feel like I'm losing some height from the tab being lower
  • Pop up menu's don't have close buttons. Only minimize – Did they take away to make it look cleaner? I need to right click to close.
  • Removed the Save as new workbook – I loved that. Helps me spin off sheets when they get too big.
  • Need to right click to delete comments – I'd rather highlight in the comments window and use the delete key.
  • Open new maps. I need to hit File > Open
  • Removed home map – Now it remembers the last session.
  • Longer to start up when you have maps linked to online

What is the biggest new feature for you?

Have you had a chance to play around with any of the new features?

Which one(s) stand out the most for you?

You can let me know in the comments down below.

How to Split The Screen in XMind 7

One of our blog readers sent in a question. Maria asked how to split the screen in XMind 7. This is a tip that you're probably not aware of, so I figured it was time to make a video showing how to do this.

There are actually two ways. One requires some basic drag and drop skills. The other uses an often-forgotten member of the XMind family to help us out.

Here's the video:

YouTube Link

Two ways to split the screen in XMind 7

Option 1 – Split existing window

resize in existing window

1.                 Option 1 – Split existing window

1.1.      This is shown in the first half of the video

1.2.      Make sure you have at least two workbooks open

1.2.1.                 Workbooks are the tabs at the top of the screen

1.2.2.                 They're the different XMind files you've created

1.2.3.                 This won't work for the tabs at the bottom of the screen

1.3.      Left click on the tab you want to move AND hold the button down

1.4.      Bring your mouse down into the map window

1.4.1.                 You can move it to the right, left, top, or bottom

1.4.2.                 There are some white lines that will show on the screen to show where the workbook will go

1.4.3.                 The lines can sometimes be hard to see

1.5.      Let go of the mouse button

1.5.1.                 XMind will move the workbook to the side of the screen you've chosen

All other workbooks will be moved to the other half of the screen

Option 2 – Use XMind Portable

use xmind portable

1.1.      Shown 2:00 into video

1.1.1.                 Here's a link to the exact spot

1.2.      Download XMind Portable

1.2.1.                 Link to XMind.net download page

1.3.      Unzip XMind Portable

1.4.      Put the files somewhere on your computer

1.4.1.                 You can just stick them in the Program files folder

1.4.1.1.    I have having things like this on my desktop

1.4.2.                 I would rename it in case you ever need to find it

1.4.2.1.    XMind 7 Portable

1.5.      Create a shortcut

1.5.1.                 Go into the folder you've created

1.5.1.1.    And into the folder of whichever version you're using

1.5.2.                 Right click (Command click) on the Application

1.5.3.                 Choose “Create Shortcut”

1.5.3.1.    Rename the shortcut so you don't confuse it with the regular version of XMind

1.5.3.2.    XMind 7 Portable

1.5.4.                 Drag the shortcut to your desktop or some other handy page

1.6.      Open one map in the regular version of XMind and the other in the portable version

This tip is available in the XMind 7 cheat sheet

If you don't already have your copy of the XMind 7 cheat sheet now's a good time.

The cheat sheet is a collection of tutorials I've put together to answer common questions about XMind. The cheat sheet is and XMind workbook with links to dozens of videos I've done and includes detailed answers to many common questions. I just ask for an email opt-in so I can stay in touch.

How to Add a New Dictionary in XMind 7

adding a new dictionary in XMind 7I was recently asked a question by a fellow mapper about how to add a new dictionary in XMind 7.

I've personally never done this, so I did a little research and checked in with my contact over at XMind. I'll show you a way to do it in XMind 7, and I'll also drop some hints of what might be coming in the future.

XMind's suggested process

The current official instructions can be found over on XMind's helpdesk site.

Here's the excerpt:

How to add my own dictionary into XMind?

Last Updated: Apr 26, 2016 04:53PM HKT
In XMind, the default spell checking uses English dictionary (.dict). If English is not your major language, you can add your own language dictionary into XMind with the following steps.
  • Get your own dictionary (normally it will be .dict, .txt or .dic file),
  • Change the file extension to .dict, if it's not,
  • Launch XMind, open Preferences from Edit menu (it's under XMind menu on Mac OS X),
  • Open Spelling page (Preferences — Spelling),
  • Click Add button, select your .dict file and add into XMind,
  • Click Apply button to save changes in XMind.
The page also provides a link to some dictionaries that have been shared by a user of XMind. You might find the language you're looking for here – http://www.winedt.org/dict.html . I visited the site and found that some of the languages have been updated recently, but others haven't been changed in several years, meaning that some newer terms won't be included in the dictionary.

Some people having issues

I understand that some people have been having issues with trying to add a new dictionary in XMind 7.
From one of the articles on XMind's helpdesk it look like some people are having challenges getting various dictionaries to work when they're not in the UTF-8 format. There are a few suggestions mentioned. I haven't tried either of them, and I'm not vouching for the conversion software mentioned as I know nothing about it.
This isn't my area of expertise, so I'm mostly adding this post as a starting point, rather than a definitive guide to action.

Something Important to keep in mind

XMind currently supports only one dictionary at a time.
That means that when you add a new dictionary to XMind 7 you will permanently delete the default English dictionary. That may not be a big deal to you, but I want to make sure you're aware of it before attempting to make changes to your installation.

Looking ahead to the future

And finally. I had a good email conversation with the people over at XMind. My contact let me know that they're working on a dictionary fix for the next version of XMind. That means we'll likely see an update to this over the next few months.
In the meantime, keep mapping away.

XMind 7 Tip – Can you change pages in presentation mode?

I was recently asked about changing pages while in presentation mode in XMind. I came up with three ways and made an explainer video to demonstrate them.

Here's the question:

presentation mode question

I'll also added this tutorial to the XMind 7 Cheat Sheet. It'll be available from version 0.6 onward.

Here's the video:

YouTube Link

Presentation Mode is a PRO feature

This tip will only work if you have the paid version of XMind 7.  When it's time to upgrade, don't forget about my bonuses.

 

 

XMind 7 New Features

XMind 7 is currently in Beta (until end of November 2015), but we can still talk about the new features and updates that will be part of the newest version.

The people over at XMind  posted a list of all the new features. I've copied over some text directly from that post, and I'll use it as a starting point. XMind's promo blurbs are italicized and my thoughts follow.

There are 10 new features in XMind 7. Here we go:

XMind 7 new features

A Brand New UI

XMind 7 user interface

A new toolbar with new large icons. A more clear style of the window. Re-designed tab bars. A more clear style of the Properties View. Improved markers and clip art library. It’s the biggest upgrade from our first release! We try our best at look-and-feel on XMind 7 and believe it will inspire you!

There's definitely a sleeker and more modern look to the user interface (UI). XMind has gone to a flat look, which is a trend we're seeing across more tools. XMind already has one of the most visually appealing UIs out of the box and this new update keeps them moving forward.

One thing I noticed the first time I started XMind 7 is that fact that the Open link on menu bar is gone. I love using short cuts (Ctrl+O), but for some reason, I like using the open icon on the menu bar more than I do in other programs. I think it's because I have my hand glued to the mouse more than in other programs. I'm a fan of reducing menu clutter, but I might suggest that the open short cut stays.

A New Home Panel

XMind 7 home panel

Every time you start XMind 7, the brand new Home Panel serves you. With the panel you can create mind map from structures, choose an elegant theme, open recent used files. You can also pin a file, in order to see it every time before you work.

I like the ability to choose exactly which format you want to use by visually seeing it. The Home screen lets you toggle between blank map views and the available templates.

I have a few mind maps I constantly use, so I always want XMind to open my “Main” workbook. I noticed that the current version of the beta displays the home screen for a few seconds even though I have it set to show my personal map. That's probably something they'll tidy up before the final release.

Huge Improvements on Gantt Chart

XMind 7 Gantt chart

Converting Mind Maps to Gantt Charts, is one of the best practices of project management. Now you can add/modify task info directly in Gantt Chart view, including start/end date, assignee, priority and progress. XMind 7 also allows exporting Gantt to images/PDF, or printing it.

Being able to print (including to PDF) a Gantt chart is a huge win. I've had several email discussions with users about this topic over the past year. It's an item I've had on my wishlist for new features.

The other change to the Gantt view is the added ability to update some information right in the timeline view. Now you don't need to go into the Task View to make all those changes.

Those features may seem small, but those of you who use Gantt charts on a regular basis will be all over this.

FYI: Gantt charts are only available with Pro version, but you can test it out while XMind 7 is still in beta until November 30, 2015.

Information Card

XMind 7 information card

XMind 7 provides a better way to show detail information. We call it an Information Card. In Information Cards, you can choose to show or hide labels, notes, hyperlinks and tasks. It's found directly under the topic.

This a cool feature that I think won't get much love, but this makes plenty of sense. I like labeling topics in XMind, but the downside is that the label makes that particular topic (node) higher. That means the look of the map gets weird if you add too many. A lesser-known benefit of labels is the ability to use them as a filtering tool.

I can see information cards being useful for when you're demonstrating a map and don't want to be distracted by extra detail. I'd also use then before I take a screen shot of what I'm working on to send to a colleague to reduce the clutter in the image.

What would be really good is if you could hide all labels, notes, and hyperlinks across an entire map.

I actually couldn't find this feature in the version of the beta I'm working on. If you find it, leave me a comment and let me know where it is. I haven't tried it yet, but I like the idea behind it.

Comments

XMind 7 comments

You may send your inspirational thoughts within an XMind file to your colleague or a friend. Ask for their comments. And in XMind 7, they can actually Comment on your mind map, instead of modifying the map directly. Sometimes, no comment is a comment.

I like the comments feature so far. XMind has needed a collaboration tool like this where notes can be fixed to certain nodes. This seems to fit the bill. A tool like this is huge for getting feedback from a team, or starting a discussion with others on a shared map.

This feature lets you add a comment directly to an individual topic. It looks similar to a note (just to the right of the text), so you can see which topics have comments by looking at the map. You can also see all comments in a separate window, which makes it much easier to review and act on any recommendations. Each comment is tagged with the name you use as part of your XMind setup, so you even know who's saying what (as long as everyone uses their own computer to comment).

One point to look into. I would have liked to been able to click on the comment and use the Delete key to remove it instead of having to right click and select Delete from the menu. That seemed like too much work to delete.

 Callout

XMind 7 callout

Callout is a funny way for additional text. In XMind 7, Callout is not only a shape, but also a real attachment to a topic. It also has sub-topics.

What? Callouts can have sub-topics?

This is a great feature. What a slick way to add extra information and catch your attention, without having to create a label, or another topic.

The callout catches your eye, as it looks like a text dialogue box from a cartoon. It's speaking right to you. The ability to add child topics lets you add more detail to whatever you're drawing attention to.

A callout is similar to a Floating Topic in my mind (A topic that's not attached to anything), except that the callout is styled to make it stand out, and it's attached to a topic.

Export/Print Outline

XMind 7 export / print outline

To get a broad overview your mind map. You can export the outline of the mind map in Text, PDF and MS Word file format for future use. This allows you to save time and gain productivity. By printing the outline, your mind map becomes a list of ideas and sub-ideas in tree form.

The ability to print from the index view has been on my wishlist for a while. The index view is a great way to look at information and search through it. It's a Pro feature that I think should be more prominent. You can use the Index view to scan for information quickly. The problem in the past was that once you found what you were looking for, you couldn't really transfer that info out.

It looks like you still can't copy and paste from the index, which would have been nice. The ability to print helps a lot.

Multi-page Print

XMind 7 multi-page print

Easily print a large mind map to multiple pages. By printing a large map onto multiple pieces of paper and then tape the pieces together, you won't lose any details of your mind maps. You can also spread them horizontally or vertically over multiple pages for a better overview or to display as a poster.

I don't print off any of my mind maps, but I've had several readers ask for this ability. I'm excited to see how this can leveraged by seeing some large mind maps come to life. If you print one off, make sure you send me a picture and let me know how it goes.

Timeline

XMind 7 timeline

We introduce a new structure named Timeline. It can be used to display a list of the events in chronological order and the trends for a subject. You can also use it to help team members track milestones and time schedule of the project.

Timeline is a new template to use. It's set to keep moving toward the right as you add more content – like you'd expect a timeline to do. You can use it as a project management and goal tracking layout to look into the future. I haven't played around much with this yet, but you can see from the image that it provides a nice clear look at upcoming events or tasks. I'm not sure how much effort this will take to setup to look like the example.

 

New Themes with 10 New Fonts

XMind 7 new fonts

XMind 7 packs 10 new amazing fonts! Fonts make mind maps more pretty, and prevent disappointment when opening your work on another computer without fonts you used. All our fonts are open source and cross-platform, which ensure your mind map looks good on both Mac/Windows. XMind 7 still add tens of new themes, with the new fonts.

More themes and more fonts. This is definitely something XMind could use more of. I'm not the type of person who will sit down and try out themes very often, but I will spend some time looking into these ones. Having more fonts and themes to choose from means we'll hopefully see more diversity in the look of maps created using XMind.

Which feature(s) stand out for you?

Which of the XMind 7 new features stands out the most to you?

Is there something in particular you'd like to use right away?

Something you don't  see being useful?

Feel free to start a conversation down below.

 

 

Image credits: All images by XMind

Update to Mind Mapping Review Series Criteria

VisualMappingReviewSeries2014_thumb.pngIf you've spent some time watching reviews of mind mapping programs on YouTube, you've likely watched at least one of my videos. I've had well over 100 000 views overall on the series so far. The last batch of reviews (VMRS 2014) I did was way back in the summer of 2014.

I'm ready to start doing some reviews of mind mapping programs again. I'd like to take them to the next level, so I've spent some time doing research to see what viewers would like to see in a review.

What I found wasn't surprising, but it probably ended up creating more questions than it answered.

I found a huge variety of needs and wants across a wide spectrum of users. I would love to be able to answer everyone's questions and desires, but it's not realistic to review 100 individual points for each piece of software I look at.

That means I need to make some choices.

So here's how I plan on updating the mind mapping review series criteria

Format change

I've done several video reviews over the past two years. I tried to keep things simple by taking about my likes and dislikes. That worked fine, but even after I cut out things I wanted to talk about, I still ended up making videos that were in the 5-12 minute range. That's too long of a video for most people to watch (including me).

I'd really like to keep video length down to five minutes or less, and instead offer addition videos on particular points I want to expand upon. I'll also take the time to go more in-depth on the accompanying blog post.

Are charts useful?

I'm also considering making a big comparison chart to my site. My only hesitation is that I only want to make things you're going to use.

Sometimes I look at charts online and I think to myself, “Who cares.” I don't want to spend a whole lot of time working on a big chart that nobody will ever use.

In my mind, a comparison chart will take a lot of work to create and maintain. That's why I plan on doing a bit more research before making a decision.

I do think that charts can be eye-catching. That means that you might be willing to read the review based on what you see in a chart. In that sense, the chart doesn't provide the answer, but it works more like a launch pad for you to move off from and onto the individual reviews.

Here are some ideas of possible list items:

About the software

  • Version # Reviewed
  • Platforms
  • PC, Mac, Linux, Web, iOS, Android
  • Cost
  • Free version vs. Paid Version(s)
  • Mobile Apps
  • Visual Appeal

Features

  • Tagging
  • Notes
  • Linking (Internal/External)
  • Filters / Search
  • Import Formats
  • Export Formats
  • History Feature
  • Chat
  • Embed
  • In websites
  • Custom Themes
  • Backup
  • Keyboard Shortcuts
  • Attachments
  • Web-Based
  • Number of maps
  • Storage
  • Online real-time collaboration

Other

  • Community available?
  • Links to templates
  • Notes
  • As a catchall

Leave me a comment down below to let me know what you think about comparison charts. Are they useful? Do you just scroll past them? How do you prefer to make a decision or learn about something new?

Name change

Going forward, I'll be making a slight chance. We'll now be referring to the Visual Mapping Review Series as the Mind Mapping Review Series. The change comes down to the fact that 1000X (embellished stat) more people search for mind mapping rather than visual mapping. I'm looking to get my posts in front of a few more eyeballs, so we're going ahead with the change.

I'll still use the terms mind mapping and visual mapping interchangeably, however, most of the writing will default to “Mind Mapping.”

Only positive/uplifting reviews

When I first started doing reviews, my goal was to “Tell it like it is.”

When someone says they're going to tell it like it is, it usually turns into a rant. That's what ended up happening with some of my videos. It definitely wasn't my intent. My goal was to help you find the best program, not to be someone blasting other people's hard work.

I've had some great conversations with several software developers and have learned a few things. Everyone I've spoken to is incredibly open to feedback. The developers are ready to listen to the good and the bad about their product. Several developers even reached out to me after my reviews and advised of how they would proceed to make changes based on my feedback.

That being said, I'm not going to whitewash a review.

I just won't review (or will limit) how much I talk about a product that I don't feel is worth your time looking at. It takes one to two days for me to do a review video and article, so I don't want to waste my time talking about something I don't want you to use. I'll still offer constructive feedback for the developers, but I'll do it using my real voice, and not try to be a know-it-all (which I'm not).

Reaching out to developers

Up until now I would do the review first without talking to the company that made it. I know that seems like the wrong approach, but in the past I felt too shy to approach the developers and wasn't sure what to expect.

After seeing how awesome they are, and knowing that they usually have cool insights and stories to share, I'll be trying to connect with each of them as I prepare the review. I might see if I can do an interview or a Q&A with them too. I'll see how things go, but it might be something cool.

I know I like seeing behind the curtain of places I'm interested in and I suspect you're the same too.

Do we need a rating system?

Up until this point, I've resisted going to a rating system. I know a rating can seem useful in choosing software, but I don't know how valuable it actually is. Since I'll only be doing reviews of products I already like, most of ratings would be in the 3-5 star category.

When I personally go to a site that gives reviews I usually laugh when someone has reviewed 10 products and they're all rated 5 stars.

The folks over at Fluent Brain use a rating system consisting of 5 categories (Visual Quality, Usability, Featues, Integration, Price) and an overall score. It seems to be working for them, so I'll keep it under consideration.

Anything else you'd like to see

That's it as far as my ideas. Is there something you'd like to see? Now's the time to make a suggestion as to how we can improve the mind mapping review series criteria.

I'm excited about all the new products out there. It's been about a year and a half since I've done a review, so there's plenty of cool changes to talk about.

The Biggest Stumbling Blocks When You Start Mind Mapping

Start mind mapping

Some people start mind mapping and they're changed forever. They can't stop raving about it.

Then there's another group of people, which you might be in.

It's the group that tries out mind mapping, but finds there's something not quite working for them.

If I'm describing you, read on. I'm going to cover what I think are the most common stumbling blocks when first using mind maps for whatever you're working on.

And Fear not.

If you've come across a stumbling block that's not included in this article, let me know in the comments and we'll talk about it.

Deal?

Onward.

Block #1: I'm doing this wrong

Never. That's impossible.

If you think you're doing it wrong, then you're doing it wrong.

Alright. I'm kidding.

But I don't believe there's a way to “do it wrong.”

Most of your stress from mind mapping will come from you thinking you're doing something wrong and not wanting to make a mistake.

Don't stress out about it.

The process will feel a little weird at first. That's what happens when you try something new. If you keep with it for a few days, that weird feeling goes away and after a few more days of using mind maps, you'll feel like a pro.

Don't wait until you've learned everything about mind mapping before starting. Just get in there and do it.

And stop worrying about rules, or what someone says you should be doing. There's time for that later.

The best way to figure out what works for you is to try it first, without judging yourself. Then go looking for some info and compare it to what you've figured out on your own.

Block #2: I can't pick a program to use

I've tested out and reviewed a ton of programs, and you know what I've found?

Many are really good.

10 years ago there were only a few good programs. Now there are hundreds. In fact, there are so many new ones coming out, I can barely keep up.

The downside to all that choice is that some programs aren't being updated and kept current.

When you're first starting out, there are two things you should look for.

  1. Is there still development on the program you want to use and a community of other people who use it. A community means you can ask questions if you stumble again.
  2. Can you get your information out? Are you able to copy and paste your information out and into something else? If so, great. Once you know what you like and don't like, you can feel free to move to a different program.

Thanks Kevin,but you YOU choose for me?

Um. OK.

I like a lot of programs, but let me give you two names to look at if you can't get off the fence. If these don't work for you, then just find something else.  Don't stress out about it.

Check out XMind. It's what I personally use most of the time. It's not perfect, but it's easy to learn. I'm mentioning XMind because I've also done 60-70 video tutorials on it, so if you have questions, I might have already posted an answer for it. You'll need to download the program and install it (Windows/Mac).

If you don't like my first suggestion, then try Mindomo. It has an app, web interface, and a desktop client. I like it too.

Phew. How was that? I just told you what to do.

If you'd like to get the fire hose treatment and see what I think on a variety of programs, you can have a look at my Visual Mapping Review Series. It's a huge list of reviews I've done. Just don't get bogged down in the minutiae of choosing a program. I'd much rather you START with something, than spend months researching.

Block #3: Should I use Paper, whiteboard, or electronic?

I love this question. Now were talking about something I'm super-passionate about.

My easy answer is YES to all three. They're all great tools to start mind mapping.

Electronic

There are some tremendous electronic mind mapping resources available, and the offerings are only getting better.

This is a great time to be a mind mapper for sure. I highly recommend choosing an electronic mind mapping program as your main location to store information.

Electronic resources are great, because they're searchable, shareable, and “organizable.”

One thing you'll hear me harp on over and over again is the need to use your mind map to reorganize information you put into it. I suggest treating the map like a living document, and not something that's etched in stone.

Paper

I like paper. It's readily available in most cases, and if you want to be even cooler, you can get some flip chart paper at your local business supply store or Amazon.

I don't use it as much anymore, but paper rocks.

Whiteboard

I absolutely love using big whiteboards for mind mapping.

There's something about using up a whole wall to put your ideas on. When you're able to write your ideas big, those ideas feel bigger and more tangible. The downside to using a whiteboard is that you either need to use that board to take action, or you'll have to copy the info into an electronic mind map. In many cases, I take a photo with my phone and save it for later.

White boards are my cure for insomnia. When I can't sleep, I head over to my giant whiteboard and write out everything I'm thinking. Then I head to bed and sleep like a baby. The next day I revisit what I've put down and take action on the ideas.

Here's  a video I did a while back (2011) about flip charts and whiteboards. The video quality is a little messed up, but the content is still good.

I have a bunch of stupid ideas in my map, now what?

Leave them alone.

Or…

Delete them.

Do whatever you'd like. It's your mind map. I personally suggest using mind maps like scrap paper. I try to get absolutely everything out of my head and include it in the map. Then I scratch off (delete) the ideas when they're not useful anymore.

Here's why I think you should write out everything. Sometimes it's the weird or dumb sounding ideas that give you kernels of greatness. You might all of a sudden see a connection between a weird idea and one of your good ones. When you mash them together, the new idea might turn out to be a game changer.

Sometimes mind maps aren't the solution

What!

I know it sounds crazy coming from me – but listen.

I've tried using mind maps for absolutely everything in my life. Most things work brilliantly with them, while others are best served with another tool.

I love mind maps for getting ideas out of my head and organizing them. I also teach people how to take action using mind maps. What I don't want you to do is limit your thinking, by saying that mind maps are the only tool you're going to use from now until eternity.

When I'm writing new blog posts, I usually do my planning in XMind (my everyday mapping program), and then I copy and paste everything into an editor.

If you need to collaborate with others, you may need to choose something else. Part of the decision in what you use needs to be based around the comfort level of the other people in the group. You may end up using Google Docs, which is great, but not as cool as a mind map.

My overall recommendations

Start now – Don't overthink what you're going to use or how you will use it. Start right away and get a feel for what you like and what you don't like. Once you know, you'll be better able to figure out how to use mind mapping to fit your current style.

Don't beat yourself up – No matter what anyone says, there's no “Right” way to mind map. Don't worry about how long or short your lines are. Who cares about colours.

After you've made a few maps, allow yourself to ask, “How could this be clearer?” Then go and read a few more articles or try things out. Don't do that now.

Try it with everything and see what sticks – For a while, pretend the only tool you have are mind maps. It's like the old saying goes, if all you have is a hammer, everything looks like nails. Who knows. You might find a really cool use for mind maps you'd never thought of. I didn't know I could write a book using mind maps, but it was great.

But like I said earlier. If a use isn't working for your or your group, you have my permission to stop.

Do you have a new stumbling block?

If you're experiencing a stumbling block I haven't mentioned, let me know in the comments down below. We can look at it together and see if we can figure something out.

XMind 7 Public Beta Available for Download

XMind 7 Public Beta is here

XMind has just announced the release of the XMind 7 public beta. For a limited time, you'll be able to download the beta version of the software and possibly help the company make things better. The beta version includes all Pro features, allowing you to test out the program in its entirety. The full-featured beta version will be available until November 30, 2015.

I've had the good fortune of being part of the private beta, so I've already had a few weeks to test out some of the new features and see what's changed. Overall, I'm happy with what the developers have come up with.

I'll do a full review of XMind 7 shortly, but I wanted to let you know about the public beta in case you're interested in trying it out for yourself.

Continued refinements

The overall look of XMind has changed. There's a new flat look to it. This is good to see. One of the best parts of XMind is how good it looks using it's default settings. Many companies and websites are transitioning to flat icons, so this update makes the program look fresh.

A big win for me is the Gantt chart.

I've had email conversations with several of you over the past year about improvements that could be made to the Gantt charts. It's good to see how the developers have made some tweaks. Something as simple as printing the Gantt chart or saving it as an image used to be difficult, but now has been improved.

I also like the addition of extra fonts and styling options, so you can customize what your maps look like.

There are some new features (like timeline view and comments) that I'm excited about. Stay tuned for reviews of some of the new features.

Test out the Pro features

If you don't have XMind Pro and are curious about how the features would work for you, then this is your chance. During the beta period, all features are unlocked. This is your opportunity to go about using XMind for everything you've thought of.

The Pro features will stop working on this Beta version after November 30, 2015.

What is a Beta version?

Here's a brief rundown of what beta testing is in case you're unfamiliar with the term.

When software goes into beta, it means that it's usually in the final stages of testing before it's released as new software. This means that it's mostly ready to go, but you could still run into issues or bugs as you use the program. It's a way to get a lot of people using the software to try to identify and resolve any issues before releasing a final version.

If there's a comment you'd like to make to the developers or you've potentially found a bug, you can contact the people over at XMind via email – [email protected].

Keep in mind that beta versions usually work great, but if you need something for mission critical tasks, just wait until the next stable version is released.

Here's the link again for the XMind 7 Public Beta. This link will take you to their site where you can download the new version.

XMind 7 final version is just around the corner

If you're not into testing and playing around, I recommend waiting a few more weeks.

In the past XMind has released their new versions around November. If everything keeps on pace as per the last few years, you won't have to wait long unitl you have the official XMind 7 release.

New/updated in XMind 7 public beta

Here's a list of all the new features and updates you can look forward to in XMind 7:

1. Share to Biggerplate.com
2. Inspector View
3. Add another Matrix (structure) which uses topics as columns.
4. Show/Edit task info (Start/End Date, Assignee, Priority and Progress) directly in Gantt Chart.
5. Export Gantt Chart to Image/PDF.
6. Print Gantt Chart.
7. Add “hide collapse/expand icon” option while printing/exporting to image/PDF/SVG.
8. Export the entire workbook to Excel.
9. Show all notes in Notes View.
10. Copy/Paste style.
11. New Window Menu.
12. Only calculate work days for tasks.
13. Add a size hint while making a map shot.
14. New topic shapes: Circle, Parallelogram, Cloud.
15. New boundary shapes: Polygon and Rounded Polygon.
16. Wallpaper Patterns.
17. New designed color palette.
18. New color set for Multi Branch Colors.
19. Add Task Assignee option in Advanced Filter View.
20. Delete the same markers of the map.
21. Clear all the markers of a topic.
22. Add “Save As” option to Image/Attachment/Audio Notes.
23. URL/Email auto detection.
24. Support Microsoft Project 2010 file format for exporting.
25. Real previews in Theme View.
26. Many other minor improvements.

What is mind mapping?

What is mind mapping?

The idea behind mind mapping is an old process.

The first well regarded use was during the third century when Porphyry of Tyros graphically represented the various categories of Aristotle’s work (as per Wikipedia).

What is mind mapping?

In essence, mind mapping is a way to visually organize your ideas.

In this day and age, we’re constantly surrounded by information.

Mind maps maps allow you to quickly get ideas out of your head. They also help you “See” the ideas. Using maps is a great way to help you collect, connect, and act on your ideas more quickly.

The man credited with coming up with the term mind map that describes a visual web-like structure is Tony Buzan.

The power of seeing your ideas

mind mapping - main / sub-topicsOne of the biggest benefits of mind mapping is the ability to see your ideas. There's something amazing about having your ideas in a visual format right in front of you. It's much different than using a Word document, or writing things out on scraps of paper. I highly suggest you try out mind mapping for yourself to get a feel for how information is organized.

Try to think of mind mapping like organized sketching. When you sketch, you have unlimited choice in how you place your ideas. A mind map provides just enough structure so you can group similar ideas together. And it lets you go back to easily find what you're looking for later on.

“When you look at it, it just makes sense.” – Kevin Achtzener

“It's how our brains our constructed”

Humans are visual creatures. I think visually organized information is easier to look at and interpret.

There are a lot of mind mapping experts and aficionados who talk about how the neurons in our brains look like a web. Each neuron is connected to one or several others. The reasoning goes that because our brains are structured like this, and because mind maps look similar, that this must be the best way to learn and organize everything.

I don't personally subscribe to that theory. I'm not convinced that the structure of the brain should impact the structure of material we want to learn or understand.

I think that well-organized, visual information is easier to work with because it “looks good” and because it's easy to see similarities and patterns in what you've created.

In the end, the neuron and brain similarity conversation is a mute point. All the matters is how effective mind mapping is for you. Why it's effective is might be good to know, but it's not as important as knowing that “mind maps just work.”

How can you use mind mapping?

You can use mind mapping techniques for pretty much anything you'd like. They sky's the limit.

Here are a few of my favourite things:

  • Brainstorming
  • Organizing your ideas
  • Studying
  • Planning meetings
  • Planning speeches
  • Goal planning
  • Time management

If you have a use in mind, I suggest you try it out in mind mapping format. It only takes a few minutes to do a basic map. You can add more information later, but starting out is quick.

Which program is the best?

Visual MappingReview Series 2014I've tested out and reviewed a ton of programs, and you know what I've found?

Most are really good.

The downside is that since so many products have come out over the years, some have continued to be updated and refined while others have not.

I highly recommend looking for programs that are continuing to be developed. It can be very frustrating to spend time getting to know a particular mind mapping program, only to find it isn't being kept up to date.

If you'd like to see what I think on a variety of programs, you can have a look at my Visual Mapping Review Series. It has a lot of reviews that will hopefully help you make a decision. Just don't get bogged down in the minutiae of choosing a program. I'd much rather you START with something, than spend months researching.

I personally use a tool called XMind. It's worked great for me. I'm mentioning that because I've also done 60-70 video tutorials on it as well, but in the end it's best to go for the tool that fits into your current workflow.

My best advice

If you're having a rough time, don't stress out.

Give yourself a chance to get used to the program, the different look, and some of the basic features of mind maps.

There's a short learning curve to mind mapping as you're figuring out what you can do and how to do it. It's nothing you can't do. Besides, if you get stuck, you can always do a search in YouTube for a tutorial.

If something is bugging you, leave me a comment below and tell me about it. I'll get back to you with an answer… good or bad.