# Mind Map Maker

Turn an indented list into a mind map with hierarchical branches

> Canonical page: https://elysiatools.com/en/tools/mindmap-maker

- **Category:** Data Visualization

- **Keywords:** mind map, mindmap, brainstorm, outline, hierarchy, tree, branches

## Overview

Parses an indentation-based outline (spaces or tabs) into a tree, lays the branches out with a tidy tree algorithm, and renders an SVG mind map where each depth gets its own color and parent-child links are drawn as smooth curves.

## Inputs

- **Mind Map Text** (textarea): An indented outline. The first top-level line becomes the central topic; each deeper indent is a sub-branch.
- **Direction** (select)
- **Node Shape** (select)
- **Color Scheme** (select)

## When to use

- When you need to transform a text-based project outline or brainstorming list into a visual diagram.
- When preparing presentations or documentation that require clear hierarchical structures.
- When you want to quickly map out relationships and sub-topics without manual drawing tools.

## How it works

- Enter or paste your hierarchical outline into the text area, using spaces or tabs to define parent-child relationships.
- Select your preferred layout direction, node shape (rectangle, rounded, or stadium), and color scheme.
- The tool parses the indentation, applies a tidy tree layout algorithm, and renders an interactive SVG mind map.

## Use cases

- Visualizing project plans and breakdown structures from simple text notes.
- Mapping out website navigation structures and information architecture.
- Organizing brainstorming sessions and study notes into structured visual trees.

## Frequently asked questions

### How do I define branches and sub-branches in the text?

Use spaces or tabs to indent your text. The first line is the central topic, and each level of indentation creates a deeper sub-branch.

### What layout directions are supported?

You can align the mind map to the right, to the left, or split branches across both sides.

### Can I customize the appearance of the nodes?

Yes, you can choose between rectangle, rounded, and stadium node shapes, as well as select different color schemes.

### What format is the generated mind map?

The tool generates and renders the mind map as a clean, scalable SVG diagram.

### Do I need to use a specific number of spaces for indentation?

No, but you must be consistent with your spacing or tab usage to ensure the hierarchy is parsed correctly.

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## Samples

- [Copyright-Free MP3 Audio Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/mp3-samples): Collection of royalty-free audio samples for testing and development purposes including nature sounds, meditation music, and ambient audio
- [Web Image Processing Python Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/web-image-processing-python): Web Python image processing examples using PIL/Pillow including reading, saving, resizing, and format conversion
- [Android Image Processing Java Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/android-image-processing-java): Android Java image processing examples including reading/saving images, scaling, and format conversion
- [Android Image Processing Kotlin Samples](https://elysiatools.com/en/samples/android-image-processing-kotlin): Android Kotlin image processing examples including reading/saving images, scaling, and format conversion

## Related content

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