What the Research Says

Dual coding — combining words and visuals — activates two processing channels in the brain, making information more memorable. For English Literature, mind maps show how themes connect, how characters relate, and how ideas develop.

Step-by-Step Method

1. 1
   Theme web — Text title in centre. Branch to themes. From each theme, add quotes, characters, and context.
2. 2
   Character map — Characters as nodes. Lines showing relationships. A key quote for each relationship.
3. 3
   Plot timeline — Key events in order. Techniques above, emotional effects below.
4. 4
   Create from memory — Recreate your diagram without notes. Check and fill gaps.
5. 5
   Use colour consistently — One colour per theme across all texts for cross-text connections.

When to Use Each Type