Start with a central idea
A key challenge or opportunity is placed at the centre of the map.
Design thinking resource
Mind Mapping
A visual brainstorming technique for exploring ideas, themes and connections.
Expand outward
Related ideas branch out, creating a visual network of possibilities.
Explore connections
The structure encourages participants to identify patterns and relationships.
Put the method to work
Put Mind Mapping into practice
Define a central concept.
Add branches and themes.
Expand with related ideas.
Review for opportunities.
Why it matters
What Mind Mapping makes possible
Encourages creative exploration
Organises information visually
Reveals connections
Supports collaborative thinking
Worked example
See it in action
An illustrative learning example, not a documented project case study. Observations, choices and outcomes show how the method could be applied; they are not research findings.
Challenge
Improve student wellbeing.
Central topic
Student Wellbeing
Primary branches
- Academic support
- Social connection
- Physical health
- Mental health
- Financial wellbeing
Secondary branches
- Mental health
- Counselling
- Peer support
- Stress management
- Social connection
- Clubs
- Events
- Study groups
Emerging insight
Social connection appeared across multiple branches, suggesting it may be a key leverage point.
Next action
Investigate opportunities to improve peer-to-peer engagement.
Common mistake
Treating branches as categories rather than looking for patterns and relationships.
Continue exploring
Return to Explore Possibilities.
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.