Develop an idea with a native mind map
A mind map gives a broad question a visible structure of topics and supporting detail. Start from Classic mind map, then rewrite its prompts, add branches and adjust the layout without redrawing every connection. The template contains editable mind map nodes rather than a single picture, so the result can grow with your thinking and remain part of the working canvas.
Canvas → Templates → Classic mind map → Use templateWhat you’ll learn
- Build a connected topic tree with editable branches.
- Change branch direction and collapse detail while reviewing.
- Apply a visual theme to the whole map or one subtree.
Captured in Boilerrum with an illustrative project. The app interface is shown in English.
In this guide
01
Make the central question yours
Open Templates, search for Classic mind map and click Use template. Double-click the central “Explore your idea” text and replace it with your question, then click outside to finish editing. Rewrite Purpose, People, Possibilities and Next steps to match the discussion. Review the smaller prompts before keeping them, so the map describes your actual topic rather than the example.
02
Grow the topic tree
Select the central node and use Add left or Add right to create a main branch on the chosen side. Select a branch and use Add Node to add a child topic. Rename each new node with a short phrase and confirm that its connection joins the intended parent. Keep individual nodes focused so a branch can express a clear line of reasoning.
03
Choose the overview and detail
Select the root and open Direction. Under Layout, choose the icon for branches extending left and right or above and below; the connected structure rearranges accordingly. Select a branch and use Expand to toggle its descendants. A collapsed node shows a descendant count. Open it again to check the detail before deciding which view best supports the conversation.
04
Give the structure a consistent style
Select the root for a whole-map change, or a branch for a smaller subtree. Open the palette button to find Mind map themes and choose a preset such as Graphite or Aurora. Subtree apply includes the selected node and its descendants. Node Style also exposes Shape, Border and Line settings; check the affected branch after each change before styling another area.
05
Keep a useful working map
Use Fit view to read the entire map, then inspect the smallest topics at a comfortable zoom. Turn vague leaves into concrete questions or next steps and save the canvas. If the structure will be useful again, select the intended map objects and open Templates → Save selection. Review the selection message before saving a named template in this project’s browser library.
You have a connected, editable map with deliberate branches, a readable overview and questions that support the next discussion. Its structure can keep evolving on the canvas.