A typical concept map has a main idea in a node, branching out using links. But it is different from traditional mind maps. Not quite sure how to make a concept map? No worries. Let’s look at some concept map examples to understand their layout and information structure.
In this article
- Photosynthesis concept map
- Production cost concept map
- World War concept map
- Nursing therapy concept map
- Network structure concept map
- Computer structure concept map
- Neoliberal progressive theory concept map
- Business model design concept map
- How to set goals concept map
- Argumentative essay concept map
- HRM concept map
- Immune system concept map
- Decision-making concept map
- Advertising concept map
- Photosynthesis concept map - simplified
- Research design concept map
- Medical diagnosis concept map
- Student achievement concept map
- Content marketing concept map
- Mechanical design concept map
Photosynthesis concept map
below. 
below. 
Here is a concept map example with a hierarchical structure. It follows the flowchart-like process with top-down steps. Plus, such structures have a lot of scope for additional details and cross-links. The top-down fashion of this map is ideal for study and conceptual clarity.
Production cost concept map
This production concept map uses the widely followed format; spider web. It has a main topic in the central node, with sub-concepts branching out in different directions. This map is perfect for brainstorming for it offers flexibility to extend ideas and boost problem-solving.
World War concept map
Did you know you can use concept maps for summaries and analysis? And this World War map is a clear representation. The interconnected events give you a broader perspective of the chronology. In such an arrangement, finding loopholes and bottlenecks is a matter of minutes.
Nursing therapy concept map
The nursing therapy concept map example lays out a plan for caretakers. It has a top-down style with color-coated categories and labeled relationships. This structure is a quick starter for those learning, as it has a straightforward node direction and easy-to-follow data pattern.
Network structure concept map
A rather unusual concept mapping technique involving overlapping parent-daughter subtopics. This example illustrates interdependent networks, all originating from one source. The labeled nodes are here to help the reader track each link better.
Computer structure concept map
It is yet another simplistic spider map with balanced nodes to represent elements of equal importance. The content focuses on integral elements of a computer structure. Again, such layouts are widely followed in educational settings for breaking down concepts.
Neoliberal progressive theory concept map
As you can see, most examples here are spider maps. This is because they are easier to plot and read. This neo-liberal theory map is a more playful example of this format. You can create a similar map for a better understanding of any topic in an educational setting.
Business model design concept map
Now, let’s talk about a new type of concept map; system structure. Like a flowchart, it has linear branches, but with a free-form layout. This example demonstrates why a business model is essential for sales and revenue. And, you can use it as a template for problem-solving.
How to set goals concept map
Here is yet another example of a system concept map. It uses simplified nodes, left-to-right in a linear fashion. Here, you will see how it uses cross-links to represent multiple connections. Such diagrams might be used in classroom, engineering, and business settings.
Argumentative essay concept map
This concept map uses a minimalist strategy to convey information. Though it follows a hierarchical structure, the creator has used simple arrows and universal terminologies. The easy-to-follow structure makes it an excellent choice for illustrating processes. You can visualize any conceptual or business procedure with a similar style.
HRM concept map
Who says you have to stick to one format? This one uses a fusion of spider and system maps to convey a plan. It acts as your one-stop solution to recruit and manage employees. Project managers will find the improvisational format helpful in navigating tasks and supervising teams.
Immune system concept map
Another hierarchy concept map. It visualizes a complex network of activities happening in our immune system. This one uses cues like colors to differentiate categories and connectors to establish concepts. What’s best about hierarchies is that they work for educators and corporate officials alike.
Decision-making concept map
With a spider layout, this concept map focuses on brainstorming an actionable market plan. The colors and symmetrical balance are commendable in this example. You may use a similar diagram to create visual outlines and plan events.
Advertising concept map
This advertising concept map example follows a spider format. This example has symmetrically balanced branches, which denotes that all elements are equally important. Plus, the short phrases and use of color make it readable and eye-catching.
Photosynthesis concept map - simplified
Does this example sound familiar? Yes, it is the same photosynthesis process we saw earlier. Yet, the design is completely different. It is clean and easy to follow. Plus, the linear layout make it practical for primary students with no prior understanding of the process.
Research design concept map
This system-hierarchy structure is yet another take on concept maps for teachers. It uses a free-style layout to break down the concept of research methodologies. The positioning of the main idea and its prominence give the reader an easy trajectory to follow.
Medical diagnosis concept map
Here is yet another example of spider concept maps. It showcases the steps involved in a medical diagnosis using colors and cross-connectors. This arrangement is effective for grabbing the audience's attention. It also gives you ample space to get creative and add visuals.
Student achievement concept map
A non-traditional take to web maps, this example branches out into multiple related ideas. It shows how you can use spider diagrams to visually organize your thoughts. The labeled connectors further give you space to add supplementary notes for external stakeholders.
Content marketing concept map
This concept map outlines the basic elements of content marketing. In this diagram, the main idea branches into a radial pattern, further extending the subtopics into smaller nodes. You can easily elaborate on a single idea using this layout.
Mechanical design concept map
Here, you have it, the detailed connections. You can see how building relevance between topics makes concept maps intricate. Though you are explaining one topic, its scope is broader. A few colors to differentiate categories can instantly maximize the engagement from the audience.
Begin Your Journey of Concept Mapping
Hopefully, after going through 20+ concept maps, you are now better equipped to visualize processes, brainstorm ideas, and plan events.
Understand that you won’t master the technique just by looking at a few concept map examples. Rather, it’s time you prepare an actionable plan and make your maps, one for each type.
Tools like Word and PPT are popular in educational and business settings. However, the manual editing toolkit and restricted templates make it a real pain to create diagrams here. Plus, they are not the best choice for brainstorming.
This is why you should switch to advanced mind-mapping solutions like EdrawMind. It features a brainstorming, outlining, and presentation mode to help sort ideas and solve problems. Start with its free version, use the provided templates, and practice concept mapping. See how formatting can easily upgrade comprehension, readability, and visual appeal.
EdrawMind
AppsEdrawMind Online
