Below we give a generic outline of how you can use mind maps in NVivo.
Mind maps are primarily a brainstorming tool that starts with a central topic or main idea.
Ideas that relate to the central topic are represented by individual shapes and connects with a line to the main idea. All ideas are connected in some way - either at the same level or in a hierarchy.
Sometimes you might have an idea that doesn't seem to be connected to any other ideas - just add this to the mind map as a floating idea.
Create a mind map in NVivo
To get started with a mind map, take one key concept or term and think of all the things that might be associated with it. Be fluid and don't censor your ideas as they flow.
An idea might prompt other ideas to branch off - they could be at the same level (sibling ideas) or go deeper into a concept (child ideas).
Turn a mind map into a node structure in NVivo
Once you've created your mind map, you can turn your ideas into theme nodes in your project. The structure of the mind map is used to create the node hierarchy.
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