Other times I use shapes like a 3-D book or computer monitor. Branch the main ideas off this central image. Use one keyword or symbol per line. Avoiding clutter permits more ideas to be represented and encourages your mind to see how they relate to each other. Print the words on top of the lines.
Printed words are easier to read than cursive.
Use color throughout. This can be especially useful in grouping related ideas. Use images throughout your Mind Map. In practice, I usually include a few quick sketches and symbols. Most of my Mind Maps are used as means, not ends.