Writer's Toolbox

Writing can be used as a helpful tool in the design process of a project because it can make visual projects conceptually stronger. Leonardo da Vinci’s sketchbooks themselves were filled with sketches that served as precursors of the webs, concept webs, and mind maps that we often use ourselves. This form of organization is beneficial for visual thinkers because mind maps give visual forms to ideas in a project. Concept maps serve as another good organizational tool. They are similar to mind maps because they too associate relationships. The main difference between the two is that concept maps allow for a more thorough analysis. Another organizational tool, called free writing, creates a way to get ones thoughts down on paper quickly so that the person doesn’t forget them. It allows the persons thoughts about a subject to flow on paper without any type of judgment. Brain writing takes advantage of group energy that brainstorming sessions bring but also allows those who are too shy to express themselves through speech. One last beneficial organizational tool is a word list. Word lists allow people to check off an item that is completed making them feel accomplished with themselves. It can also serve as a fast way to use words to record ideas.