One Word per Line

Although at times it can be difficult to think of just one word to sum up your idea or thought and add it as your branch label, Tony Buzan inventor of Mind Mapping maintains that this is one of the most fundamental rules of Mind Mapping. Tony states that it is paramount to do this in order to keep thought processes clear, straightforward and free flowing.

Once two or more words are placed on a line, they are by default fused together which means that a limit has been placed upon the direction through which the thought process can travel. If, for example, you were to put the name “Tony Buzan” on one branch, that branch can relate only to that individual. However, if the idea is broken down into two words, ‘Buzan’ and ‘ Tony’, then the branch bearing the name ‘Buzan’ can encompass not only ‘Tony’, but the etymology of the name, parents, siblings, extended family, all of which can also bear their own collection of child branches.

The argument expands that once two ideas are fused together, a certain degree of clarity is lost. If the mind views only one word, it can focus upon this and open itself up to all the possibilities this word brings forth. If, however, there are two (or more) words placed upon a branch, straight away the brain is faced with a conflict of interest. It must split its thought process and concentrate on more than one idea at once, which breaks down the organic thought processes that are brought forth through Mind Mapping making it such a unique thought tool. Therefore, the one word per line rule obliges the Mind Mapper to “think on the run”, enhancing analysis, concentration, focus, and overall thinking acuity. It also allows the user to get to the very essence of their thoughts by focussing.

This is not to say, however, that it is not possible to have more than one word associated with each thought. By placing just one word on each branch the Mapper is able to analyse the big picture using a vast amount of smaller associations. These in turn can be analysed in great detail giving an in-depth microscopic view of a topic without losing sight of the macroscopic.

By keeping the line of thought clear and distinct from each other this also allows the user to recall this line of thought easily and without the worry of confusion. As a result, the one word line rule enhances memory and powers of recall.

Sticking to the one word per line mantra gives you the freedom for limitless thoughts to radiate from each word. Each word possesses a great amount of associations – by fusing words together, you immediately limit the possible associations and in turn stifle your thought processes. By keeping the words separate clarity is maintained, which in turn helps thought processes to flow. The one word per line rule is a blanket one and as such is applicable to all learning areas and thought processes. This means once the Mapper has mastered this technique it can be transferred universally throughout Mind Mapping.

10 Reasons Why One Word per Line Is Key:

1. It gives each word a vast amount of creative freedom.
2. It allows you to break down the topic without losing sight of the big picture.
3. It allows a far greater clarity of thought.
4. It allows for more immediate connection and association between ideas.
5. It enhances memory and powers of recall.
6. It provides greater flexibility of thought.
7. It facilitates all learning giving each Mind Map far more unique character.
8. It enhances analysis, concentration, focus, and overall thinking acuity
    allowing the Mapper to “think on the run”.
9. It expresses the essence of thought.
10. It expresses a far more truthful reflection of reality.

Figure 1 – Words fused together on one line

Figure 2 – Words separated but still limited scope

Figure 3 – Words able to radiate by separating on single branches

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