How to create a mind map in Miro

Learn how to build a mind map in Miro using the built-in template, branch nodes, and formatting tools to organize ideas visually.

Quick answer

Open a board, click + (Tools, Media and Integrations), search for Mind map and pick it, then click the canvas to place your central topic. Type the main idea, press Tab (or click the + on a topic's edge) to add child branches, and keep expanding outward. Use the floating toolbar to change colors.

Steps at a glance

  1. Open a new or existing Miro board
  2. Search for Mind map in the + menu
  3. Click the canvas to add your central topic
  4. Press Tab or click the + on a topic to add a child branch
  5. Type ideas into each branch as you expand outward
  6. Change a topic's color from the floating toolbar
  7. Export the board with Export this board when finished

Interactive demo

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Summary

Miro's Mind map tool turns a single central idea into an expanding network of connected branches on an infinite canvas. It's a fast way to brainstorm, outline projects, or break down complex topics without separate diagramming software.

Step-by-step guide

  1. Step 1

    Open or create a board

    Log in to Miro and open an existing board, or start a fresh one. If you're new to the platform, follow the steps to create a board before continuing, since a mind map needs an empty canvas to grow on.

  2. Step 2

    Find the Mind Map template

    Click + (Tools, Media and Integrations) in the left toolbar, type mind in the search box and pick Mind map. A Templates panel with Mind Maps opens beside the toolbar. For a blank map, just click an empty spot on the canvas.

  3. Step 3

    Add your central topic

    Click an empty spot on the canvas to place the central topic, then type your main idea, project name, or question. This central node is the anchor that every other branch will connect back to.

  4. Step 4

    Add branches with Tab or Enter

    Select the central node and press Tab, or click the + on its right edge, to generate a connected child branch. Type a subtopic into each new branch, then press Tab again from any branch to keep expanding outward into sub-branches.

  5. Step 5

    Rearrange and connect nodes manually

    Branches stay connected to their parent. With Auto layout switched on, Miro keeps the map arranged for you, so a dragged branch snaps back into place. If you want more freeform notes alongside your map, you can also add sticky notes to capture extra thoughts without disrupting the branch structure.

  6. Step 6

    Style branches for clarity

    Select a topic and use the floating toolbar to change its shape, connector style, color, font size or text color. Color-coding by theme or priority makes it easier for teammates to scan the map at a glance.

  7. Step 7

    Share or export your mind map

    Click Share in the top-right corner to invite collaborators, or click Export this board in the top-left toolbar and choose Save as PDF or Export as image.

Why this matters

You're kicking off a new project, planning content, or leading a brainstorm and need a visual way to capture ideas as they branch off each other. A mind map lets your team see connections instantly instead of scrolling through a linear list of notes.

Frequently asked questions

  • Do I need a paid Miro plan to make a mind map?

    No. We built a mind map on a Free plan board while capturing this guide.

  • Can I change the colors of a mind map?

    Yes. Select a topic and click the color swatch in the floating toolbar to pick a color, line style and fill opacity.

  • What does the Auto toggle do?

    With Auto layout switched on, Miro keeps the branches arranged for you, so a branch you drag snaps back into place.

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