Mind maps quite simply make revision make sense.
Whether you’re preparing for a test, assessment, mocks or your final exam, a mind map should be an essential part of your revision toolkit.
After all, what else can help you:
- Summarise a tricky topic into easier bite-sized chunks
- Make visual connections between thoughts and ideas
- Organise your learning so you can recall information faster
Sounds perfect, right?
What is Mind Mapping?
In short, it’s a visual diagram where you break down a topic into different sections or sub-topics so that you can see the ‘big picture’ with ease.
Using branches from the central main topic, you can simplify a topic by separating it into key information with added visuals if you want.
Some students harness colour to separate and connect information – and even use simple icons to inspire creative thinking.
Why Does This System Simply Work?
- Because key information is separated out rather than lost in a wall of words on a page, you’re more likely to recall it later.
- Better still, because details are short and to the point, they facilitate revision as shorter ideas are easier to remember than lots of dense text.
- Plus, you can expand a mind map with colour, quote bubbles and boxes giving you ‘at a glance’ access to important text.
- Use a mind map to highlight key concepts, and add connecting branches.
Ooh, they’re versatile too. Mind maps can be designed on paper or online – depending on what suits you best.
Paper ones can be pinned in your bedroom for familiarity. Digital ones can be easily accessed wherever you are too!
Ways to Use GCSE Mind Maps
- Break down an anthology poem into language, form & structure, themes and context. A great way to recall how writers get ideas across.
- Break down historical events into causes and consequences.
- Break down a scientific process with numbers and simple imagery
Often, if you don’t know how to start revision, mind maps are a cool and accessible way to start.
Narrow down some topics in each key subject and get scribbling. Remember to keep your mind maps neat, and concise.
Stuffing loads of information in isn’t the idea. Keep it simple….
Stuck in a Revision Rut?
As ever, if you feel like you’re going round in circles, enlist the support of a top tutor who knows how to get you back on track. Call our team here!
Image courtesy of mind mapper dot com
Tags: assessments, GCSE revision, mocks, recall, revision