Sometimes it's a challenge to keep track of all of the ideas you have to write about that suddenly come to you. When combined with reading and research, it's just a matter of time before your mind is in overload mode. By setting aside time to mind-dump you can become better organized and can actually improve your writing.
Mind dumping is purging and sorting the information that is bouncing around in your head. By doing this you are able to accomplish a few things:
- -Establish a clearer thought process
- -Build on substantively on ideas
Though jotting down ideas is common in the writing process, this is where it usually stops. Expanding on each idea is what makes the mind-dumping process more effective. One idea can literally become several ideas. For example, you develop a concept about effective communication. This is a general title that can broken down into a series of sub-titles:
- -"Effective Communication"
- Verbal and Non-verbal communication skills
- Creating solid word structures
- Positive body language
Just by expanding on a method you may already have, your writing becomes concise with less generalizations. If you don't have a way of organizing your ideas, start with a running list. Keep handy next to your laptop or PC. Anytime you get a new idea, write it down. Carry a small pad and pen so nothing slips your mind (no pun intended) and you can still add any thoughts to the running list later. You can also get creative and draw colorful mind maps. Whatever you choose to get "your" creative juices flowing is the right way. Now you have plenty to write about.
