Mind Mapping Your Case with Google Notebook LM
- mac0202
- Jul 13, 2025
- 2 min read
(Gmail account required).
Each case is unique and demanding in its own right. Sometimes even the most experienced trial counsel can overlook relevant and interesting strategies in dealing with the facts. That’s where mind mapping comes in. With careful and detailed “prompting,” you can be amazed.
According to Google’s Gemini AI and the sources it used for its output on the subject:
“Mind mapping is a powerful visual tool for organizing information, brainstorming ideas, and enhancing memory. It's a non-linear graphical layout that helps you see connections and relationships between different pieces of information.
Here's a breakdown of what it involves:
Central Topic: You start with a main idea or concept placed in the center of a blank page (or digital canvas). This is the core of your mind map.
Branches: From this central topic, main ideas or subtopics branch out, like the branches of a tree. These are directly related to the central theme.
Keywords and Images: Instead of writing full sentences, you use keywords, short phrases, symbols, and images on your branches. This makes the information concise, easy to scan, and memorable.
Sub-branches: From the main branches, further ideas and details can branch out, creating a hierarchical structure. This allows you to break down complex topics into smaller, more manageable parts.
Connections: Lines, arrows, and colors are often used to show relationships and connections between different ideas, even across different branches. This highlights how everything fits together.
Why is mind mapping effective?
Mirrors Brain Function: It's believed that mind mapping mimics the brain's natural way of thinking and associating ideas, making it a highly effective learning and brainstorming tool.
Visual Appeal: The use of colors, images, and a non-linear format makes mind maps more engaging and enjoyable to create and review than traditional linear notes.
Improved Memory and Recall: The visual and associative nature of mind maps helps with memory retention and makes it easier to recall information.
Enhanced Creativity: By encouraging free association and non-linear thinking, mind maps can stimulate creative ideas and solutions.
Organization and Clarity: They provide a clear, concise overview of a topic, helping to structure complex information and make sense of it.
Problem-Solving and Planning: Mind maps are excellent for breaking down problems, planning projects, outlining essays, and strategizing.”
Editor’s comments: If you think visually, this tool is worthy of your consideration at different stages of the litigation as issues, challenges and opportunities arise. The results can be informative, motivational and productive.
The mind map visualization can be produced by Google’s Notebook LM (a powerful artificial intelligence tool). Coupled with the attorney’s experience, strategies and independent human judgment, mind mapping can make all the difference in even the most complex and dynamic of civil cases.
(Gmail account required).
