# Free Writing, Word Lists & Mind Maps

![Every One Starts At Zero Illustration by Jolby from Gettoworkbook](https://245918587-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MQIcDYOYCZiD_AGK-s4%2F-MRGJ1inp90tleClM1Q7%2F-MRGJDmbpyc9_SBs9XEw%2FGETTOWORKBOOK_everyone_starts_at%20zero.jpg?alt=media\&token=9970bda8-8426-4a92-81b4-1411247dbac3)

**Freewriting** is similar to journal writing but it focuses on a specific idea or question instead of writing about general thoughts and feelings.

For more info, read: <https://writingprocess.mit.edu/process/step-1-generate-ideas/instructions/freewriting>

**Word Lists** are a great way to rapidly go through any words that come to mind when you're brainstorming a particular idea. There are many wordlist generators online.

For more info, read: <https://writingcooperative.com/brainstorming-new-ideas-part-2-word-association-a083c7b6e29e>

**Mind Maps** are great when you're trying to get an exhaustive overview of everything you know about a particular topic. Afterward, you can identify any holes in your topic or decide to focus on a particular area.

For more info, read:

* [https://www.mindmapping.com](https://www.mindmapping.com/)
* <https://writingprocess.mit.edu/process/step-1-generate-ideas/instructions/idea-mapweb>&#x20;
* <https://lifehacker.com/how-to-use-mind-maps-to-unleash-your-brains-creativity-1348869811>

![Andy Hunt mind map from the book Pragmatic: Thinking and Learning](https://245918587-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-legacy-files/o/assets%2F-MQIcDYOYCZiD_AGK-s4%2F-MRGJLJkDra_FMzPK5Hf%2F-MRGJSCAaimsDLs1jfE3%2FAndy%20Hunt%20MindMap.png?alt=media\&token=9de109b8-0cf1-44a5-97c0-3d1df4077b35)