Brainstorming is an essential strategy for writers to develop fresh and unique ideas that can make their content perfect. However, after repeating these techniques, a writer might lose motivation along the way.
There are specific ways to make the brainstorming process more fun and effective. Although many brainstorming techniques focus on group sessions, they do not generate a massive amount of ideas. But even though group brainstorming sessions have their shortcomings, they are known for improving teamwork.
Now there are multiple online brainstorming tools available that are more than capable of enhancing this process. These tools can be used to their full potential by following the seven rules of brainstorming.
The Seven Rules of Brainstorming
To excel at anything, it is crucial to follow the rules. This also applies to brainstorming. The writers can access the potential of brainstorming by using these seven rules.
- Complete the Preparation
Every writer needs to tap into their zone to start typing out masterpieces. This also applies to welcoming new ideas. Choose a place that is calming and mentally stimulating. Treat this place as sacred, and never let any distraction follow you in there.
- Encourage Every Idea
During the brainstorming process, some thoughts may seem absurd. Even then, it’s better not to cross them off. They might seem useless at the moment, but with a fresh set of eyes, it might look like they work together.
- Focus on Quantity
Again, every thought and opinion holds a foundation. So it is better not to focus on only writing down quality ideas. Instead, just horde the concepts. Then, it is easy to separate the good ones from the bad ones later.
Moreover, if all the time is spent regulating the ideas, it can also stop the good ones from trickling in.
- Try Visual Brainstorming
Don’t let your thoughts ping around your head but allow them to flow out creatively. Use brainstorming tools to make the process as creative as possible. Online brainstorming tools such as Miro offer a great way to visualize ideas.
Employ drawing, sketching, and doodling to make sense of some difficult concepts.
- Use Different Brainstorming Techniques
It is better not to stick to one way of brainstorming. The multiple methods people use brainstorming to produce maximum results are:
- Mind Mapping
Mind mapping is the visual representation of ideas with the help of words, drawings, doodles, and color-coded images. This technique is quite effective in structuring and focusing on the topic and combining two different thoughts to create one productive one.
In addition to gathering creative ideas, multiple studies show that mind mapping also improves long-term memory. Moreover, it is easier to do mind mapping online because an online platform like Miro offers different creative ways to represent your ideas for free.
Besides, it can be used for both individual and group brainstorming.
- Free Writing
Freewriting is an individual brainstorming technique. To follow this technique, the writer writes the topic and every topic-related information they may have. The free flow of information leads to new ideas.
- Word Association
This brainstorming technique is fantastic for gathering various new ideas in a short amount of time. To follow this approach, write a topic and start writing every word and concept it generates. After finishing, circle the best ideas.
To take it up a notch, make two lists. One should be filled with words connected with the topic, and the other consists of random words. Then link them together, and it will create very bizarre but incredible points.
- Meditate During Brainstorming
To some people, meditation during the brainstorming process might sound absurd. But meditation increases the willingness to accept new ideas. It also reduces stress which makes brainstorming easy.
- Fill in the Gaps
During brainstorming, a moment always arrives when it is difficult to form new ideas. To keep the flow going, analyze what areas have been covered and which have been left. For example, an academic piece must have some critical points you need to cover.
However, if there are no criteria, make a list of your own. List down every necessary thing to not miss any element.
Conclusion
To brainstorm, one needs to be committed and focused. If you invest a good deal of attention and time, it will pay off well during the writing phase. You can also use an online brainstorming platform to generate new and exciting ideas quickly.
