Of the programs that Windows has, Office is one of the most relevant in terms of writing jobs . That is why to create a concept map you just have to follow the steps explained below.
Index( )
- What structure should a concept map have?
- Brief and concise concepts
- Linked by lines or arrows
- linking words
- How to start designing my concept map in Word?
- Using Word Shapes
- with text boxes
- guide lines
- Where can I find templates for my concept map to do it in Word?
What structure should a concept map have?
In the case of Word, it offers many tasks, functions, and add-ons that, if you know how to use them, can do wonders. In order to generate a well-done concept map, you need to take certain aspects into account.
These have different forms, which is important to know and thus choose the one that best suits us when developing a specific topic. The types of concept map are the following:
- Hierarchical: This should have the title and the main concept at the top. In the area below are the subtitles with the extended concept.
- Spider-style: The title must be placed in the center and the other information around it, following a specific order.
- Systematic: It is a little more complex because the concepts are intertwinedto have a relationship with the theme.
- Multidimensional: The relevant part in this map is a figure of two or three dimensions and each of them must contain the necessary information.
- Landscape: The definitions of all information must be enclosed in figures.
Brief and concise concepts
The development of this style of maps is simple and minimalist with which the information is as clear and direct as possible . A bit different than mind maps . With this, the reader will be able to assimilate the content in a more practical and faster style.
It is essential to write the ideas directly and to the point. In this way, you will avoid using very complicated terms.
Linked by lines or arrows
Something very important to keep in mind are the support resources, such as arrows and lines. These must have a specific address that points to the desired section.
Also, don’t forget to use dark colors so that they stand out against the white background of the Word sheet. Phosphorescent colors are not used much, since they can bother and tire the reader’s eyes and are also distracting.
linking words
The words that relate the concepts to convey an idea more precisely are a vital point. One way to do this is to place the phrase in the middle of the line or arrow that connects one box to the other. This way the reader will know what order to continue reading. It works the same in synoptic tables .
How to start designing my concept map in Word?
First of all, it is necessary to count all the information investigated, in order to avoid losing concentration while making the map. Having this clear , you have to choose a style , in general, most people use the hierarchical type.
Using Word Shapes
By establishing the main structure, the shapes are created, which are usually circles, ovals, squares and rectangles. These are located in the option bars at the top of the screen. We must go to the variable ‘Insert’ then to ‘Forms’.
The pointer will change to a + symbol. That you have to leave the right click pressed with which to choose how big we want the figure.
with text boxes
Another method of writing is with text boxes. These are very useful in this type of occasion, with simple designs, but at the same time aesthetic. Well , by default they have a white background color with black lines that delimit it.
They are seen in the tools panel. In the insert section and going to the right area in ‘Text box’. Choose ‘Simple Text Box’ and hold the right click.
guide lines
They fulfill the function of giving an exact order to the text boxes. This tool is located under ‘Insert’. By clicking there go to ‘Forms’.
When doing this it is crucial to touch the mouse and position ourselves on one side of a box and dragging to the other. To finally release it and thus create that connection. It is possible to change the color, transparency, thickness of the bounding line. In addition to adding shadows, among many other possibilities that Word offers.
Where can I find templates for my concept map to do it in Word?
On the web you will find all kinds of plugins and tools. In the case of writing programs, there is an enormous variety of models and templates. That’s why you have to know where to get them. A highly recommended website is ‘concept and mind maps’ . In this there are varied and great designs. Also, you have the option to download in PowerPoint and Google Slides format.