Connect thoughts with relational links. Use sticky notes as an effective alternative. Free associate a different idea on each note, regroup the sticky notes into categories, then construct a web on butcher paper. Use different colored sticky notes to denote headings or categories that emerge from the brainstorm. By far the most effective and efficient method is to use a commercial software program such as Inspirations.
Software programs have significant advantages over paper and pencil.
Webs become unwieldy as they grow. Software program manage growth. Try different looks and nudge the cells to for style. Click on another cell or start a new branch. Revise, move, delete and paste.