Thinking in maps: from the Lascaux caves to knowledge graphs

What’s true of maps is true of any other abstractions: by nature, they’re designed to serve the interests of their designers.

Maps have long been a part of human society. They are valuable tools to pass on knowledge. Still, in using maps, abstractions, and models, we must always be wise to their limitations. They are, by definition, reductions of something far more complex. There is always at least an element of subjectivity, and we need to remember that they are created

As well as being a social practice, mapping is fuzzy, intuitive and qualitative. As a result, you may find the process uncomfortably free-form at first. How do you know where anything goes? Once you’ve put a few stakes in the ground in the form of starter trends, you can then begin to position additional trends, perhaps shifting those already place

Humans think using mental models. These are representations of reality that make the world comprehensible. They allow us to see patterns, predict how things will unfold, and make sense of the circumstances we encounter.

Use concept maps as aids to understanding rather than memory

Tony calls Mind Mapping a “Swiss Army Knife for the brain.” It is not only a method for expanding your memory, but a way to improve your thinking skills. Mind Mapping can be used for memorizing, learning, presenting, communicating,