How do you make a mind map?

Write the main topic in the center, add a branch for each main idea, then add smaller branches for details. Keep labels short, use colors for groups, and keep adding branches until the topic is covered.

What is the difference between a mind map and a concept map?

A mind map radiates from one central topic in a hierarchy. A concept map can have several central ideas and labels the links between them to explain how the concepts relate.

Quick Diagrams

Blank Mind Map Template

By RP Hobbyist · Updated October 2026

A mind map organizes ideas around one central topic. Main themes branch out from the center, and each theme branches again into details, which mirrors the way people naturally connect ideas. The technique was popularized by Tony Buzan in the 1970s and is widely used for brainstorming, note-taking, studying and planning.

This blank template gives you a central idea with four empty topics, so you can start mapping straight away. Rename the center, add as many branches and sub-branches as you need, and use colors and icons to group related ideas.

Blank Mind Map template as a mind map — The Blank Canvas template as it opens in the editor.

It opens as a new map with 5 topics already filled in. You don't need an account.

Open in the editor

When to use a Blank Canvas

Brainstorming ideas for a project, essay or business
Taking or revising study notes
Planning an event, a trip or a piece of writing
Breaking a big goal into smaller parts

What goes in each branch

Central Idea: The main topic, question or goal, in a few words. Everything else on the map should relate to it.
Topic 1 to 4: The main themes or categories. Use single keywords or short phrases, then add sub-branches for details, examples and open questions.

Example: Planning a science fair project

Central idea: how does temperature affect plant growth?
Research: articles, similar experiments
Materials: seeds, pots, thermometers
Method: three temperature groups, daily measurements
Presentation: charts, photos, conclusion

Tips

Write keywords rather than full sentences so the map stays easy to scan.
Work outward from the center, and don't judge ideas while you are still brainstorming.
Give each main branch its own color so groups are easy to see.
When you finish, look for links between branches; they often lead to the best insights.

Using this template in Neuron Mapping

Click Open in the editor. The template opens as a new map.
Select a topic and press Tab to add a branch under it, or double-click a topic to change its text.
Select a topic to change its color and shape, or add notes to it in Markdown.
When you're done, export the map as a PDF or PNG, or save it to keep editing later.

Everything runs locally in your browser: your map is saved on your device, works offline, and can be exported as PDF, PNG or an editable .nmm file.