Concept Maps
A concept map organizes ideas hierarchically, starting with a main topic then key concepts, breaking down details, and linking related ideas to clarify thinking and decision-making.
THE IDEA
Build Yourself Concept Maps
A concept map lays out the ideas, facts, and relationships relevant to a decision. It makes them easier to revisit and compare, including which points seem most important. The map still depends on what you include and how you connect it.
At the very pinnacle of the map, you have your main point or subject. This could be some decision you are grappling with – “Moving” or “Taking a new job.” Or, you could summarize a problem – “Boosting test scores” or “Making More Money.” You don’t want to add details to the point. Just a simple phrase that sums up the basic premise will do.
Then, find the key concepts related to the main idea. If you are deliberating a move, you could consider the key concepts of place, time, cost, and even basic pros and cons to moving. Again, keep the key concepts short and sweet without tons of detail.
Now you can start to get more detailed with each additional step. Under cost, you can list things such as the cost of a U-Haul, the deposit on a new rental, etc. You might add something in there like, “How will I afford this?” Then, under that question, you can list some ideas for raising or saving money to afford this. Do this for every concept, breaking it down into the most minute details you can think of.
The last part is connecting words and phrases that are related. The timing of your move may relate strongly to the cost. You can only move when you have the costs covered. So, you might link the two.
Review the finished map for missing links, unsupported assumptions, and details that do not affect the decision.
When to use it
Planning a major life move, such as relocating to a new city
Making a career decision, like whether to accept a new job offer
Solving a complex problem, such as improving academic performance or increasing business revenue
Organizing a project by breaking it down into core tasks and dependencies
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Moving Decision
Main point: Moving. Key concepts: place, time, cost, pros/cons. Under cost: cost of U-Haul, deposit on new rental, moving supplies. Under time: lease end date, work schedule, school calendar. Link time and cost: you can only move when you have the costs covered.
Boosting Test Scores
Main point: Boosting test scores. Key concepts: study habits, subject understanding, practice tests, time management. Under study habits: daily review, flashcards, group study. Link study habits and practice tests: regular practice tests reinforce study habits.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What is the main decision or problem you are currently facing that could be mapped?
What are the key concepts involved in that decision?
How do those key concepts relate to each other? Can you identify links?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Thinking in Systems and Mental Models Think Like a Super Thinker (Dawson, Marcus P)