About the Mind Map Template
The mind map template is a well-organized, ready-to-use graphic tool for your next brainstorming session. Ideal for visual learners, this diagramming method avoids the rigid structure of other ideation techniques, focusing instead on the free association between concepts and ideas — connecting creative and logical thinking.
Miro’s free and fillable mind map template is exceptionally easy to use, with seamless drag-and-drop features and an infinite canvas to expand your diagram on as you need to. We’ll share more tips on how to make the most of our mind mapping template in the following sections.
How to use the mind map template
Miro’s free and customizable template makes mind mapping easy. You can fill it in as you brainstorm on your own or collaboratively with your team, whatever fits best in your work mode — whether you work remotely or in person.
Here’s how to use the mind map template in Miro:
1. Open the mind map template
Scroll to the top of this page and click on Use template. That’ll open the mind map template on a new Miro board, allowing you to start editing it. Simply click on the blue Share button on the top right of your Miro board to invite your teammates to work on the mind mapping template together in real time.
2. Start with the central concept
The large purple rectangle in the center of your mind map template – the one that says “problem” – highlights the specific question or central topic you’re trying to explore. It’s worth giving your team 5 minutes to brainstorm a few ideas when deciding on the main concept. When you’re ready, double-click on the pre-written text to replace it with your own.
3. Extend your mind map with branches
Mind maps always start with a central topic and branch outward as they expand. At the end of the first set of pink and purple branches, you’ll find empty text boxes labeled “type something.” Click on these text boxes to add your first few follow-up ideas. To rearrange the branches, simply click and drag them around. Repeat this step with the rest of your branches in the mind map template
Pro tip: Need more branches? Save time using the mind map template’s automated diagramming tools. Click on any text box to reveal the + button, and click on it to generate a new branch from that point that automatically comes with a text box on the other end.
4. Customize the mind map template
Miro’s mind map examples are easy to customize, and there are several steps you can take to truly make it your own. Try changing branch colors, text colors, or font styles. You can even add context to your mind mapping template using sticky notes, stickers and emojis, or dragging and dropping your own images and documents.
5. Share your mind map template
Want to walk your teammates through your mind map template in real time? Use Presentation mode to run live sessions straight from your Miro board with plenty of features to maximize participation — including reactions, and having others follow your cursor.
Rather work async? Use Talktrack to record immersive and interactive video walkthroughs that you can share with your teammates to watch in their own time. You can even start comment threads right on your Miro board and tag people in important discussions using @-mentions.
And if you’d rather export your Miro board as a PDF or image, we’ve got you covered. Just click on Export this board on the top of your board and choose your preferred file format.
When to use a mind map template
Mind mapping is one of the best ways to capture your thoughts and bring them to life in visual form. Beyond just note-taking, creating a mind map can help you and your team become more creative, enhance memory, and solve problems more effectively.
Here are a few scenarios where the mind map template comes in handy:
Brainstorming: Whether you're generating ideas for a project, planning an event, or coming up with solutions to a problem, mind maps help to organize thoughts creatively and expansively.
Project Planning: Mind maps can outline the steps, resources, and timelines for a project. They provide a visual representation of tasks, making it easier to understand the project's scope and sequence.
Problem Solving: When facing a complex problem, a mind map can break it down into smaller, more manageable components. This makes it easier to identify potential solutions and their implications.
Presentations: Mind maps can be an effective tool for preparing and delivering presentations. They help in structuring the presentation's flow and ensuring that all key points are covered.
If you want to learn more and improve your mind mapping skills, take a look at our guide to mind mapping.
