Pen Vs Cursor, Which Mindmaps Are The Best?

Have you ever made a mindmap on paper? When you are like most of the people who start to use mindmaps, your first (and only)mindmap is probably created on a computer. That is not a problem. It is wonderful you are creating mindmaps. But do you miss out on something good when you don't mindmap on paper? Let's have a look.

Pen vs Cursor. In the beginning, when mindmaps were first 'discovered' you could only create a mindmap on paper. In fact, I like to say there are two types of mind mapping: traditional, pen or paper mind mapping and computer mind mapping. There are some important differences you have to be aware of to get the most out of your maps.

Mindmaps created on paper are usually really very personal mindmaps. After all, you created them using nothing but a pen and paper. Often this will be done using just one color (it is our habit to use one color). Even then, your mindmap is a personal representation of the information you have in your head and environment.

When you mindmap on your computer using a mindmap software tool, the map looks rather generic. Sure, you can change some colors or the position of the branches, but the font is usually untouched. The color of the branches is often also something you will not change. The only difference is when you add images to the map. Even if you use the image library that comes with the tool, the map may look personal.

The biggest difference between Pen and Cursor maps is personality. Pen maps are much more personal. They include your own handwriting!

The only time when computer mindmaps look really personal is when people don't understand the possibilities of the tool that well (usually in the beginning). They create free floating topics and connect these. Often they are told then that this is not the right way to use the tool. They learn to use it 'the right way' and their maps become more generic.

Pen maps created on paper are often used for a quick overview or to become inspired or more creative. Cursor or computer maps are use for information management, most of the time. You add lots and lots of information and links to information sources in the map. This mindmap or overview represents the current situation of your information.

So which type of map is the best type?

It all depends on your goal. When you know that, you can quickly and easily use pen or cursor, paper or computer maps.

By: Arjen Ter Hoeve

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Are you ready to master your information? Do you want to know what mindmaps can do for you? Have a look then at MindmapsUnleashed.com. I am more than happy to assist you in creating mindmaps that give you understanding, insight and inspiration!