Mind Mapping: The Key to Creative Problem Solving

Here goes the real story of a detective (name masked)

Tuhin was trying to solve a critical detective case. What’s so new about this? Well, the case was very complicated with the presence of a lot of characters. Till here, this still sounds normal. Now, the exception to this case is here comes a lot of ambiguity about every single character.

Every time Tuhin, the detective officer in charge, tries to find a clue, 5 more complexities come up. Hence, thinking in a straight line was not helping Tuhin or his associates. However, Tuhin has solved some of the most appreciated cases by thinking in a linear manner. Such cases are meant to be solved linearly.

They tried a number of strategies, but they were losing out on information one after the other. No ray of hope was getting visible, but Tuhin was able to figure out the perpetrator. That was totally based on his experience. He was slightly doubtful between his two suspects, but with his years of experience he was certain it would be between the two.

With no conclusion coming into visibility and the time nearing soon for solving the case, they were being pressurized by higher level to get out a verdict. The D-day was nearing. Tuhin decided to adapt to mind mapping. That’s the only way left. Mind mapping was a very new concept to his department then.

After a lot of exploration and studies, Tuhin and his associates could finally solve the case that had got entangled beyond measure, by now. Wondering if they could hit the D-day? Well, they were 3 days prior to the D-day. What’s more, the final culprit came out to be the one whom Tuhin didn’t even think in his wildest dreams. That’s how wonderful mind mapping is.

What is Mind Mapping?

Mind mapping is a highly practiced method in cases where you need to look at multiple angles. It’s a brainstorming way that arranges information and ideas around the main theme. With processing of all information in a visual way instead of writing them down in a linear manner, you get to have a multi-faceted view of a topic.

Another dose of information for you is psychologist Tony Buzan is the person to have laid this amazing concept of mind mapping.

A mind map also uses shapes, symbols, colors, and writing fonts, among others in your diagram for mind mapping. Finally, you get a visually effective plan of your ideas and thoughts.

What are the benefits of mind mapping?

• Mind Mapping helps in retaining and recalling a lot of information at one place

This is one of the indispensable advantages of mind mapping. Retention of information is very important for brainstorming any project, case or situation. The flow of thoughts and bunch of ideas only make sense when you are able to process them all together. It’s like a diagrammatic view you get of the entire concept which not just gives you a holistic view of the theme, but also lets you retain information for a long time.

Let’s say, you see a building, close your eyes and try to picture it. The visuals embedded in your subconscious will be retrieved as you visualize the colour, length, doors, windows, stairs, levels, etc. Hence, even after a long time, you can reminisce about the information.

• The learning becomes comprehensive and robust

As you learn newer concepts, you start gathering how they are linked to one another. Not only are you able to connect different concepts of the same theme with mind mapping, but also help you map the dots of existing knowledge and new knowledge. Hence as Tuhin was solving the case and was swamped with loads of additional information coming in, he could connect all the dots of new info as well as link to the existing information. 

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• It makes your learning enriching and fun

 So, as you read a novel and visualize the events, characters and plots in your mind, it makes your learning more fun. And, when you enjoy something so deeply, you invest more of yourself in it. This promotes more profound learning, be it educational or fiction.

Also, it helps in engaging learning where you get to generate ideas and connect while developing mind maps.

• Great collaboration

Brainstorming can be done alone, but it works great when you work within a team. Mind mapping is more effective when done within a team. As it’s a visual technique, all of the team members can see each other’s thoughts while adding theirs to the map.

• Easy comprehension

Since mind mapping involves seeing different aspects of a theme, it lets you easily understand the complex concepts. If you are using this method for your company, you can make a wonderful strategic plan with your team for the upcoming projects. What’s more, mind mapping also helps in planning for upcoming projects.

So, whether you are looking to strategize an upcoming project, solving a critical case, preparing for a client pitch or creating content ideas, leverage mind mapping to boost your creativity and productivity. Since you now understand what mind mapping is and the benefits of mind mapping brainstorming, all you need to do is get started.

Have you tried this technique? Have you tried it yourself or with help of a certified life coach? In what area of your life have you employed this? What has been your experience? Do share with us in the comments section.

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Paras

ICF-certified (Master Certified Coach) and ESIA -Coach Supervisor Dr. Paras, and Co-Founder of Dr Paras Wellness Pvt. Ltd. with brand Matrrix has been focused towards initiating change and transformation in people. As a certified Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) Master Practitioner and Mindfulness Coach, he brings a fresh approach towards learning the psychology of one’s thinking and behavior patterns. In his 18 years’ journey, he has trained, coached and mentored over 1.5 lakh individuals while certifying over 240 coaches. The leadership development programs of Matrrix have honed over hundreds of professionals while resolving workplace issues and ensuring higher ROI for firms.

Dr. Paras uses the power of coaching, counseling and positive psychology frameworks to resolve organizational issues, manage internal conflicts, and accelerate business growth. His programs for professional certifications in NLP, Mindfulness, Counseling, Coaching, and more have solidified his name as a transformation coach. Dr. Paras is also the founder of the Iinner Universe Education Foundation that runs Tava-Mitram (not-for-profit) to improve emotional wellness. He is also an avid blogger and social media enthusiast who loves keeping in touch with his international audience.

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