Glossary of Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Tools (Terms & Acronyms)

Important Links to Related Pages

1.      Return to Explore the 32 Category Master List of Productivity Software Applications

2.      See our Side-by-Side Comparison of Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps.

3.      Return to the Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps. Category List

4.      Scan Through the List of Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

📘 Glossary: Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Tools – Category-Specific Terms

Branching

A visual structure where ideas expand outward from a central node—used in traditional mind maps.

Canvas

The flexible workspace where users place nodes, shapes, or ideas.

Card-Based Brainstorming

A format where ideas are captured on visual "cards" that can be rearranged or grouped—used in tools like Milanote and Jamboard.

Central Node

The main idea or theme in a mind map from which all other sub-ideas branch out.

Collaboration Mode

A live editing environment allowing multiple users to update the same board or diagram simultaneously.

Concept Mapping

A method for visualizing relationships between multiple interconnected ideas (not always hierarchical).

Drag-and-Drop Interface

An intuitive design feature where users can quickly move and reorganize nodes, branches, or cards.

Idea Clustering

Grouping similar thoughts or topics together in a brainstorming session—often color-coded.

Linear View / Outline Mode

A text-based, sequential representation of a mind map for easy reading or exporting to documents.

Sticky Notes / Digital Post-its

Virtual notes used to capture quick ideas—found in tools like Lucidspark, Jamboard, and Miro.

Task Conversion

Turning brainstormed ideas into tasks, often integrated with project management features.

Template Library

Pre-built mind map or brainstorming frameworks for common use cases (e.g., SWOT analysis, decision trees).

🔤 Glossary of Acronyms – Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Tools

UX / UI – User Experience / User Interface

Design principles that determine how intuitive and enjoyable the tool feels to use.

PDF / PNG / SVG – Export File Formats

Common file types supported for saving or sharing mind maps and whiteboards.

AI – Artificial Intelligence

Some platforms (like Whimsical and Miro) now use AI to auto-suggest connections or generate brainstorm ideas.

SaaS – Software as a Service

Most brainstorming platforms operate on a SaaS model—web-based with subscription pricing.

API – Application Programming Interface

Allows integration of mind mapping tools with other platforms like Trello, Notion, or Google Docs.

SSO – Single Sign-On

Authentication method allowing team members to log in to multiple platforms with one set of credentials.

Important Links to Related Pages

1.      Return to Explore the 32 Category Master List of Productivity Software Applications

2.      See our Side-by-Side Comparison of Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps.

3.      Return to the Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps. Category List

4.      Scan Through the List of Mind Mapping & Brainstorming Apps. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)