A Mind Map is a powerful graphic technique that harnesses words, images, numbers, logic, rhythm, color and spatial skills. Unlike linear notes, it allows your mind to work with expansion.

Mind Maps are an incredibly powerful memory tools. As I was studying for my CPA exam, I created a very large detailed Mind Map that covered several walls in my home office. When I was taking exam I could close my eyes and see Mind Map and go right to answer.

We both know a picture says a thousand words. In Mind Mapping, you can use one word to trigger a set of memories or you can draw a picture (artistry doesn't matter) that represents a story or memory for you.

You can use Mind Mapping or Clustering techniques to record a single event or a whole day of events. If you are working on time management, you can also use a Mind Map to track time and tasks. For this, you will want to turn paper landscape, add a center picture, like a clock, and use branches pointing same way as clock's hour -- noon or midnight would be straight up, one o'clock slightly to right of midnight, etc. The sub-branches would be one word representing your focus or task during that time.

After attending a personal development event on that evening, I like to reflect on my experience by drawing a Map from what I recall. This is a great way to transfer my thoughts from short term to long term memory. If I took notes I choose one word or image that represents each though per single branch for each area. When I remember a thought that doesn't connect clearly, I record a trigger word of what I do remember along with a question mark right before I turn in for night. By morning I have answer or a complete picture that is built on that Map. Sometimes morning also brings additional ideas or fuel for thought.