rules of thumb. no rigid order of stages. moving back and forth between phases is OK. IDEAL stands for. I = Identify the problem. D = Define goals. E = Explore possible strategies. A = Assess and act. L = Look back.
tool branches contain links to detailed description of tools. use tools when you're stuck. hide tools when not needed. collect ideas under "RESULTS". spontaneous. from tool usage.
drag & drop important ideas to higher level. adapt the IDEAL template. maps easier to understand. hiding less important ideas. keep track of your thoughts. add favourite phases. add favourite tools. customize for specific problems. use abbreviations. e.g.. smaller maps. math problems. management problems. personal problems.