Weekly Writing Tip: Think in Bubbles

Outlines can be very helpful for organizing ideas prior to writing a paper (learn more about outlines). Sometimes, though, we struggle to see connections between our ideas or to consider all the possible directions a topic can lead us. We may have a lot of details and not understand the big picture. In these cases, concept mapping is a valuable tool for breaking out of the box, finding connections and possibilities, and visually creating the message we hope to communicate to our readers. Here are a few examples of concept maps. Use a Google images search to find more. Then, sit down with your topic and see where a concpet map will lead you.

http://ctl.byu.edu/tech-tips/concept-mapping

http://www.education.tas.gov.au/school/curriculum/resources/lote/cultural/examples/Snugworksample1.jpg

http://library.uvic.ca/instruction/research/devtopic.html