How to Make a Concept Map

Summary

In this tutorial, Libby introduces the concept of concept maps, explaining how they visually organize thoughts and improve understanding. Using Lucidchart, she demonstrates how to create a concept map step-by-step, starting with identifying the main concept and organizing related ideas. She covers elements like shapes, arrows, and text to form propositions and cross-links. By comparing concept maps to mind maps, Libby shows the importance of specifying relationships and structuring information hierarchically. The tutorial also includes tips for refining and customizing the map for clarity and impact.

Takeaways

• 📝 A concept map is a visual tool that helps organize thoughts and ideas, making them easier to understand and remember.
• 🧠 Concept maps leverage visuals because the brain processes images faster than plain text.
• ✏️ Concept maps can be created using pen and paper, but diagramming applications like Lucidchart make the process easier and more efficient.
• 🔹 The three basic elements of a concept map are shapes (concepts), arrows (relationships), and text (descriptions).
• 🎯 Start a concept map by identifying a main concept and, if necessary, a focus question to narrow the topic.
• 📋 Make a list of related concepts (a 'parking lot') before organizing them into the map; keep each concept brief (1–2 words).
• ⬇️ Arrange concepts hierarchically, from general at the top to more specific as you move down the map.
• 🔗 Use arrows with descriptive text to show relationships between concepts, forming meaningful propositions.
• 🔄 Cross-links can connect related concepts in different sections of the map to illustrate broader relationships.
• 🌀 Concept maps differ from mind maps: concept maps focus on hierarchical structure and relationships, while mind maps radiate from a central idea with less emphasis on connections.
• 🎨 Finalize the map by refining layout, descriptions, and optionally using colors or styling to enhance clarity and visual appeal.
• ♻️ Revising and updating the map is part of the process, allowing you to incorporate new insights and improve clarity.

Q & A

What is a concept map?

A concept map is a visual tool used to organize thoughts and ideas, showing relationships between concepts. It helps improve understanding and memory by presenting information visually.

Why are concept maps useful compared to plain text?

Concept maps are useful because our brains process visuals faster than plain text, making it easier to understand, remember, and organize information.

What are the three basic elements of a concept map?

The three basic elements are shapes (representing concepts), arrows (showing relationships), and text (identifying and describing concepts and relationships).

How do you choose the main concept for a concept map?

The main concept should be one specific topic, such as the subject of a research paper, study topic, or problem. It serves as the central focus for all related ideas in the map.

What is a focus question, and why is it important?

A focus question specifies the problem or issue the concept map addresses. It narrows the scope of the main concept, making the final map clearer and more useful.

What is the 'parking lot' in the context of creating a concept map?

The parking lot is a list of related concepts written to the side of the map, usually 15-25 key concepts. It serves as a brainstorming area before placing concepts in the hierarchical map.

What is a proposition in a concept map?

A proposition is a meaningful statement formed by two concepts and a linking phrase, such as 'The solar system includes the sun.' Propositions define the relationships between concepts.

How do cross-links enhance a concept map?

Cross-links show relationships between concepts in different parts of the map, helping visualize connections across domains, like 'planets orbit the sun.'

How does a concept map differ from a mind map?

A concept map flows downward from a main topic with text describing relationships, while a mind map places the main topic at the center and extends ideas outward in all directions, with less emphasis on relationships.

What are some ways to refine and improve a concept map?

You can refine a concept map by adjusting the position of concepts, using better words to describe relationships, adding color, and ensuring clarity and visual impact. Revisions are a natural part of the process.

Which tools can be used to create concept maps, and what tool was used in the tutorial?

Concept maps can be created with pen and paper or diagramming applications. In the tutorial, Lucidchart was used because it is user-friendly and offers free accounts.