- Overcomplication and Structure: When creating the Mind Map beware of the number of branches or sub-branches you create as this can become overwhelming and generate confusion. The solution is to keep it simple (especially in the early development stages), stick to the main topic with concise and clear branches and use keywords rather than lengthy statements.
- Too Much Text: Avoid filling your Mind Map branches with too much text, paragraphs as this defeats the purpose of providing a clear picture, Mind Maps should be visual and easy to follow. Hence use keywords, images, symbols and brief text.
- Hierarchy: It is important to prioritise the topic and main branches, not all branches are equal and this should be recognised. Therefore, try to arrange branches hierarchically, keep the main/central topic as the most significant, then the sub-topics and then possibly splinter branches with support short text or an image.
- Lack of Visuality: Avoid having boring Mind Maps with no visual prompts, insert colour and images to sustain interest and keep it more visually pleasing, this enhances visual retention and creativity.
- Being Too Linear: Avoid making your Mind Map too linear, too square with direct lines, a good Mind Map will be non-linear and generate interest and further creativity.
- Lack of Reviewing: When complete, don’t leave it aside and forget about it, keep it in sight, return to it and review and updating as situations change, add further information and details as it becomes available, a good Mind Map is adaptable.
- Copying: Do not just copy ideas, text, etc directly from another source, use your own words and ideas, this helps with understanding the Mind Map and the main objective of its creation.
- Skipping Keywords: Try not to use vague keywords that don’t capture what you are hoping to achieve. Use relevant keywords, keywords that will trigger further development and sub-branches/topics.
- Digitalisation: Make your Mind Map as interesting as possible, make use of digital tools, this will enhance your Mind Map and possibly make it more visually interesting. You should explore some of the more common Mind Mapping software which is available, this provides enhanced formatting tools, collapsible branches, etc.
- Losing the Purpose: Mind Maps should have a clear purpose and hopefully a clear goal in what you are hoping to achieve. So define the purpose before you start, is it to brainstorm an issue or situation, the planning of a project, the development of a more cultural aware workforce/team. Be creative, but keep in mind the end goal.