Write the topic you need to generate ideas about in the center of the page. State the theme of your essay, such as "Hamlet's Insanity," or the problem you need to solve, such as "Time Management." Circle it to emphasize this is the central idea.
Break down your main topic into smaller ones. For example, if you are brainstorming a character, draw lines radiating out from your character's name in the middle and title them with major categories, such as "Personality," "Likes," "Dislikes," "Physical Appearance" and "History."
Divide each category further using more branches. A mind map about "Hamlet" might list relevant scenes from the play to support major ideas, for example. Connect branches that overlap, such as scenes from "Hamlet" that support more than one idea.
Include pictures or symbols if you are a visual learner. Draw a key to highlight an important point or use question marks to emphasize uncertainty.