Getting started with mind maps

Here's a quick start guide to help you get the most out of Whimsical mind maps.

Building a mind map

First, create a new Board, or switch to Board mode, then there are a few ways to make your first node:

• Click or drag a mind map out from the toolbar
• Use the keyboard shortcut M

Then it's time to have fun and let your ideas loose!

To make a new sibling node you can click on the icons, or just hit Enter. To make a child node, use Tab. Drag and drop the nodes to rearrange them:

Customize your mind map

There are many options in the toolbar, including:

• Curved or straight lines
• Adding formatting text to Bold or Italic
• The orientation of the mind map
• Adding a link
• Adding icons - to the main node and child nodes
• Changing line colour
• AI-assisted mind mapping
• and more!

Import and export

Need to just copy and paste? We have a quick way to import and export mind maps!

Just copy a list from somewhere else then select a mind map's starting node and paste with command (or ctrl) + V:

Or to export, select the main node and copy then paste* it somewhere else. 

*Paste special is the key! "Command + Shift + V" or "Ctrl + Shift + V"

Examples and Templates

Head on over here for some sweet examples and templates you can use - Community Templates

Next up! Getting Started with Projects