Branching

Branching is a variation on the Mind-mapping method, but it proceeds in a more methodical way than the free-associating that results in a Mind-map. This prewriting technique works best with topics that lend themselves to division into discrete sub-topics or components. A Branching diagram looks something like a chart showing the structure of an organization. Or you might consider this method as a way of creating a "family tree" for a big idea that you have chosen to write about.

To brainstorm by Branching, first put your topic idea at the top of a page, and draw a rectangle around it. Then write below it all the ideas or sub-topics you can think of that branch from your main topic or big idea. The more branches you discover or create from the main topic, the more ideas you will be able to explore in your essay. Push these ideas further to discover more points and details to write about until you have branched out as far as your thinking or research can take you.