How do you organize your ideas and information visually?

1 Why visual thinking matters

Visual thinking is a skill that anyone can develop and benefit from, regardless of their background or profession. It can help you clarify your thoughts and goals, explore different perspectives and possibilities, simplify complex or abstract concepts, and even enhance your memory and recall. Additionally, visual thinking can engage your audience and collaborators, as well as stimulate your imagination and innovation. Furthermore, it can complement other modes of thinking, such as verbal, logical, or analytical, to help you integrate them into a holistic understanding.

2 How to use visual thinking tools

There are several tools and techniques that you can use to express your ideas and information visually, depending on your purpose and preference. Mind maps are diagrams that show the relationships between a central topic and subtopics, using branches, keywords, and images. They are useful for brainstorming, planning, and summarizing. Sketchnotes involve a combination of words and drawings that capture the main points and insights of a lecture, presentation, or book. Flowcharts are diagrams that show the steps or processes involved in a task, decision, or system, using shapes, arrows, and labels. They are useful for mapping, analyzing, and improving. Infographics are visual representations of data, facts, or information that use charts, graphs, icons, and colors. They are useful for explaining, comparing, and persuading. You can use these tools individually or together to achieve your needs and goals. Additionally, you can create your own visual language with symbols, metaphors, and stories that resonate with you and your audience.

3 How to practice visual thinking skills

Visual thinking is a skill that can be cultivated and refined through practice and feedback. To boost your visual thinking skills, you can keep a visual journal and record your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in visual form. You can also play visual games with yourself or others, such as Pictionary or Visualize This. Additionally, you can learn from other visual thinkers, such as artists, illustrators, or graphic facilitators. They can provide guidance and advice to help you develop your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Visual thinking tools and techniques can help you organize ideas and information in a clear and engaging way, as well as unleash your creativity and innovation.

4 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?