In short, I use mind maps to create initial rough drafts. Once the general structure is finished in a mind map I’ll export it to OmniOutliner (or use Scrivener’s outlining feature for a large writing project) to refine the chapters, sections, headings, subheadings, etc.Depending on how preliminary my thinking is I’ll start with programs like iThoughtsX or with Scapple when my initial thoughts are very vague. With a mind map of general ideas, topics, subjects.In general, I start any major project (work or writing): The difference between programs like MindNode or iThoughtsX and Scapple is that the latter is free-form mind mapping–one can create nodes anywhere–for example, a node does not need to be attached to a parent or sibling node. Programs like MindNode or iThoughtsX are better for free flowing brainstorming at the early stages of a project or article. A program like OmniOutliner is great for the more structured, detailed and refined process. Outlining for my purposes is used to refine the detailed structure of a project that initially begins as a mind map. An outliner is linear by design–it limits free form thinking which is the hallmark of mind maps. One should never say never!įair question! I use the three because they work differently and as a result impact my thinking in different ways. In fact, I wrote on this very forum that I was never writing in anything but markdown. I think the enthusiasm (which I’m NOT criticizing) for markdown in this forum and certain podcasts caused me to be unnecessarily concerned about lock-in. The reason I feel comfortable using Pages (or Word) for writing is that I can export to plain text if needed and/or I can convert any file using DEVONthink so I’m not concerned about future proofing as much as I thought I needed to be. And, as I wrote here, it is easy to create a “focus mode” in word processors. My one exception is I use Obsidian for my research files. I’m using Pages for most of my writing so I can have the advantages of rich text without the clutter and encumbrances of markdown. That said, I’ve gone "back to the future." I also like Ulysses but I’m adverse to subscriptions. I might use if for a long essay, article–20 pages or more. I’m only using Scrivener for a book length project. I’m with you, I would not use it for something like sermons or presentations. It requires a bit of a learning curve to compile from Scrivener. I’ve tried Scrivener for sermon writing, but can’t get the output how I want it.
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