Mind Maps

I recently attended an online genealogy lecture that introduced the concept of using mindmaps for family history research. As a teacher, I’ve often used mindmaps with my students, but it hadn’t occurred to me to apply this technique to my own research. Inspired by the lecture, I purchased Mind Mapping Made Easy for Family Historians by Linda Hammond.

Yesterday, I explored various mindmapping tools and ultimately chose MindNode Next. I was looking for a platform that was user-friendly, visually appealing, and offered features like the ability to add images, collapse nodes, include links, and export to PDF. MindNode Next checked all the boxes.

After looking at several I've decided to use MindNode Next. I have a 2 week trial and then there is an annual subscription fee that is quite reasonable.

I currently have timelines for many of my ancestors so I plan to see if using mindmaps can enhance and organsie my research further

Knox Moore - Timeline

I’ve begun organizing a mind map for my great-grandfather, Knox Moore, using headings such as BDM, Residence, Arrival, Spouse, Children, Occupations, Newspapers, Will/Probate, and Sport. Now, I need to determine the best way to track the information I’ve gathered—whether to continue with my timelines or switch to mindmaps. 

Now I need to decide which is the best way to keep tabs on the information I have about Knox spreadsheet or mindmap.

If I felt inclined, I could also have another section with links to the blog posts I have about various ancestors. 

So far the only downside I've discovered is when I try to export the mindmap from my computer as a pdf or an image the program quits. However, I can successfully do this from my iPad.

Knox Moore, my great grandfather

The mind map with all nodes closed. 

I like the ability to add notes.