Dictionary.net

Connections between several ideas or pieces of information become visualized by using this specific type of graphical technique. A web of relationships evolves as each idea or fact captured traces to its major or minor or following or previous idea or fact using lines or curves. Mind mapping is used for note taking, brainstorming, problem solving, and project planning. Like other mapping techniques, focusing attention, and to capture and frame knowledge to facilitate sharing of ideas and concepts is its purpose. UK researcher Tony Buzan developed it in his 1972 book 'Use Your Head'.