Pattern Notes

Introduction

Sometimes known as mind-mapping, this is a more creative way of recording information or developing ideas. It can be particularly useful for brainstorming, i.e. getting lots of initial ideas down quickly without detail. It is also useful for developing ideas for an assignment before you have a clear idea of how the flow of the assignment should be or which points are more important than others.

See the example below which shows possible notes developed for an assignment concerning the consequences of the number of vehicles on the roads

Advantages of Linear Notes:

• Using images and colour to stimulate the mind and aid memory
• Limited use of words leads to conciseness
• New ideas and information can easily be inserted
• Promotes the free flow of ideas by being open-ended
• Revision is made easier as their uniqueness aids recall