Freeplane: Free Mind Mapping Software For Windows, Mac And Linux
Freeplane is a free cross-platform mind mapping software which can be an interesting choice for making your next mind map, project timeline or concept map. This free app has been derived from the FreeMind mind mapping tool and has been developed by one of the developers who worked on the former. In fact, according to the developer, it is a redesigned version of FreeMind.
Free Mind Mapping Tool for Windows, BSD, Linux and Mac
As this is a cross-platform app, it’s is compatible with a wide range of operating systems including Windows, Mac, BSD and Linux. Freeplane is quite a simple app to use. On the left is a toolbar which makes access to essential features quite easy. You can start off by testing the various features from this toolbar on the sample mind map that will pop-up when you launch Freeplane.
Create Rich Mind Maps
Freeplane makes it possible to create anything from basic mind maps to complex ones, with logical design with various handy functions including; spell checking, filters, the ability to view and edit the code of items in your mind map, rich text editing, the option to insert time and date in your mind maps and more.
If you are new to apps like Freeplane, you might initially get a little overwhelmed at the plethora of options and what to do with them. But after you have acquianted yourself with the basic features, it can be easy to use your creative side.
You can export mind maps in multiple file formats including; HTML, JPG, XML and XLS, which makes it possible to use these mind maps across other applications. For example, you can save your mind map as a JPG image and present it in a PowerPoint presentation.
Related: Also see the list of 5 Best Mind Mapping Applications.
Create Encrypted Mind Maps
One of the most interesting features in this app is the ability to create encrypted, protected mind maps. To create an encrypted map, go to the file menu and select New Protected (encrypted) Map and enter a password.
The Verdict
It can actually take a bit of time, especially for newbies to make head or tail out of many of these options or to effectively use them for making a mind map with some creative ideas. However, once you get a hang of Freeplane, it can be quite a reasonable mind map maker to work with.
Go to Download Freeplane
