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A concept map is a way to visually display the relationships between different concepts, ideas, and pieces of information. Concept maps are hierarchical, with one main idea or focus question and several sub-topics, key concepts, and related ideas.
Although they look similar, concept maps are not the same as mind maps. Concept maps are generally more robust visualizations, with additional context and connections between ideas.
Concept map features
- The focus question or main idea is the problem you’re trying to solve. The focus question should be front and center in your concept map, with ideas branching from it.
- A concept is simply an idea or piece of information. Concept maps help you organize ideas and identify how they relate.
- Linking words and phrases, called connectors, describe the relationship between concepts. Without linking words, the ideas in a concept map would lack connection and context.
- Cross-links connect ideas on different areas of your map, often tying together two concepts that once seemed entirely separate.
- When two concepts connect with a linking word or phrase, they form a propositional structure. These statements provide meaning and inspire insights into the focus question.
- Concept maps have a hierarchical structure. Generally, the broadest, most general concepts are at the top of the map, with specific, detailed concepts below. A clear hierarchy helps your concept map flow and makes it easy to read.
- A parking lot is a word bank of concepts you intend to include in your concept map. A parking lot helps you generate initial ideas without immediately knowing where they fit on your mind map.
