One of the most important techniques for mind mapping is to start from the center and work outwards. This makes the central idea connecting everything on the mind map literally in the center of all of the ideas. Branches should work outwards from the central idea like a spider's legs in relation to its body. Draw branches closer to the center thicker than those further away, similarly to the branches on a tree.
To create good mind maps, colors and pictures are vital. Use different colors for different sections of the mind map, in order to better separate the ideas. For example, if you were compiling a mind map of ideas for a restaurant, you could have a green branch representing Italian, a blue branch representing French and so on it that fashion. If color can be made to relate to the branch itself --- in the example, primary flag colors could be use --- this will help your understanding of the mind map. Pictures can also be used as an effective method of conveying information quickly. You can also use codes or shorthand in place of the full word where suitable.
Personalize your mind mapping style if you wish. Mind maps are supposed to be a method to quickly get down and recall information you have in your mind. Therefore, although there is a set of general rules regarding the drawing of mind maps, making them individualized can greatly improve their effectiveness. If you prefer to use only pictures, it is better to do so than to try to follow conventions regarding the use of words.
Mind maps must be as neat as possible to ensure easy digestion of the information contained within. Write in print, as opposed to cursive. Many of the visual conventions have been established by Tony Buzan, who coined the term "mind map." You can use either upper or lower case letters, but they must be easy to read. Give each idea its own line so that the information is more structured and not chaotic. Draw the lines connected to each idea roughly as long as the space taken up by the word or image representing the idea. Computer programs can be used to create perfectly neat mind maps.