在腦圖（MIND MAPS）發(fā)明人托尼巴贊（Tony Buzan）的網(wǎng)站上，對腦圖是這樣定義的：

A Mind Map is a powerful graphic technique which provides a universal key to unlock the potential of the brain. It harnesses the full range of cortical skills–word, image, number, logic, rhythm, colour and spatial awareness–in a single, uniquely powerful manner. In so doing, it gives you the freedom to roam the infinite expanses of your brain. The Mind Map can be applied to every aspect of life where improved learning and clearer thinking will enhance human performance.

Originated in the late 1960s by Tony Buzan Mind Maps are now used by millions of people around the world – from the very young to the very old – whenever they wish to use their minds more effectively.

Similarly to a road map, a Mind Map will:

Give you an overview of a large subject/area.
Enable you to plan routes/make choices and let you know where you are going and where you have been.
Gather and hold large amounts of data for you.
Encourage problem solving by showing you new creative pathways.
Enable you to be extremely efficient.
Be enjoyable to look at, read, muse over and remember.
Attract and hold your eye/brain.
Let you see the whole picture and the details at the same time.
Assist YOU!

大意是：腦圖是一個打開大腦潛能的強有力的圖解工具。它同時運用大腦皮層的所有智能，包括詞匯，圖象，數(shù)字，邏輯，韻律，顏色和空間感知。 它可以運用于生活的各個層面，幫助你更有效地學(xué)習，更清晰地思維，讓你的大腦最佳表現(xiàn)。

腦圖由Tony Buzan在六十年代創(chuàng)立。至今，在全球已經(jīng)為成千上萬的人使用。從小孩到老人，只要你想更有效地使用你的大腦， 你就可以使用腦圖。

腦圖可以幫助你：

    獲得一個大課題的全景圖
    計劃你的前進路徑和作選擇，知道你要去哪里和你現(xiàn)在在哪里
    獲得和掌握大量信息
    創(chuàng)造性地解決問題
    享受閱讀，分析和沉思的樂趣
    同時把握全局和細節(jié)
    成為高效人士