Mind map templates and examples

5 min

Mind mapping stems from a simple idea—sometimes you need a visual representation of your thoughts or data to brainstorm ideas, see new connections, and retain information. Tony Buzan, the author and educational consultant who popularized mind mapping, said, “Normal linear note-taking and writing will put you into a semi-hypnotic trance, while mind mapping will greatly enhance your left and right brain cognitive skills.”

Mind maps help you connect ideas and see the relationship between each part of a problem, concept, or project. The center of the map is your main topic—with each branch off the center a subtopic. You can make your mind maps more or less detailed as needed.

The free-flowing nature of mind maps makes them easy to apply to an unlimited number of subjects and use cases. So where should you start?

From food and photography to business plans and brainstorming maps, we’ve created mind map templates for a variety of use cases—check out the examples below and click on the template link to start customizing your own mind map today.

If you would rather start from scratch instead of using a template, read our article to learn how to make a mind map.

Blank mind map template

Not entirely sure where to begin? Start out with this blank mind map template and let your creativity take over from there. Whether you need to brainstorm ideas for your business or organize your notes from school, simply put a subject in the center and go. You can customize this template and add more shapes to take your mind map to another level.

AI-Powered Mind Map Templates

With Lucid’s new intuitive features, creating mind maps is easier than ever. Visually represent thoughts, ideas, and other information in seconds. Then, leverage AI to brainstorm new ideas or summarize your content to expand your horizons.

AI Mind Map Templates (click on the image to edit them online)

Simple mind map template

Mind maps can become quite expansive and elaborate depending on what you choose as a topic and how far you decide to branch out. To make things easier, start with this simple mind map template for free when you sign up for Lucidchart. Organizing your ideas will be a piece of cake when you use our mind map maker.

This template example maps a business plan—such as marketing, finance, sales, product, and administration. You can expand on this example or use it as a guide on how to map your own plans or ideas.

Simple Mind Map Template (Click on image to modify online)

Identity mind map template

What makes you you? Identity is a big concept—but our identity mind map template can help you break it down into all the things that make you unique. Add in your hobbies, talents, relationships, physical characteristics, and elements that define who you are and highlight what sets you apart from others.

Brainstorming mind map template

Brainstorms can get murky and disorganized without a clear note-taking process. That's why mind maps are the perfect solution to visualize your brainstorms. One solid topic can start a chain reaction of related ideas that'll lead to your next big innovation. Customize this brainstorm mind map template to get a head start and see where your ideas lead you.

Bubble mind map template

Mix things up and try using this bubble mind map template or a basic bubble map template to chart out your concepts and ideas. Unique visuals help you memorize and classify ideas, so consider using bubble shapes for a change from traditional rectangular mind maps.

Food mind map template

If this food mind map template doesn't make you too hungry, you might find it helpful as a starting point to map out various food categories. Use it to map out the courses for an upcoming dinner party or to ensure that you have eaten enough protein, vegetables, etc. as part of a balanced diet.

Photography mind map template

What makes a successful photographer? What elements should you consider with each photograph you take? Use this photography mind map template to answer these questions and offer an informative visualization.

Psychology mind map template

Psychology explores human behavior and mental processes. This broad subject encompasses a wide range of topics, and with this psychology mind map template, you can map them all out to better understand different schools of thought and applications. Customize this template to your specific needs on the topic.

Music mind map template

This music mind map template looks at a variety of music types, but you can use it as a starting point to map out a specific genre of music and its characteristics. With Lucidchart, you can even add links to your favorite songs, artist profiles, etc. Make your music mind map template custom to your needs for free.

Chemistry mind map template

Frustrated by all the terms your chemistry professor throws at you? Consider using this chemistry mind map template to help you memorize and understand any chemistry topic. It's simple to customize the template for better visualization of any chemical component or process.

Art mind map template

What better way to understand and visualize an artistic concept than to use a custom mind map? Cover the life and works of a famous artist or detail all the elements of a specific form of art. Start with this art mind map template and customize it for the art topic you wish to cover.

Global warming mind map template

Most people are aware of global warming, but they may not fully understand its impact on the planet. If you want to create a better understanding using visuals, use this global warming mind map template and build off of it to share with others.

Hopefully, we’ve inspired you to add mind maps into your work—no matter what role you fill at your company or what subject you need to pass in school. Once you’ve brainstormed in your mind map, Lucidchart can help you bring your ideas across the finish line. Start with these templates or visit our mind map template library and customize it to fit your unique ideas.

10x your brainstorming and study sessions with mind maps.

How to make a mind map in Excel

Learn how easy it is to create a professional mind map in Microsoft Excel using Lucidchart in this guide. Use the shape library or SmartArt to create a mind map directly in Excel.

Learn more