A concept map requires preparation, brainstorming, structuring, linking, and finalizing a concept. It is used as a tool to visualize relationships between concepts which becomes useful to debunk complex information on a large scale. Researchers, Teachers, scientists, and students use this concept to help create a pictorial model of the concept, identify gaps and loopholes, and enhance the overall learning of different subjects, particularly science.
Dr. J. D. Novak is the creator of concept mapping who says that one should focus on one question in one map and link phrase for every connection line. A concept map can be classified in various ways like Quantitative vs qualitative concept maps, free form or fixed structure, collaborative vs individual, demonstrative or analytic concept maps. Usually people refer to the Novakian style of concept map creator that is qualitative, free-style, and analytic type.
Concept maps are different from other graphic organizers as they are more free in their structures and give more emphasis on knowledge connections. They also allow many-to-many relationships. People often mix the concept maps with charts, mind maps, flowcharts, and timelines, as the difference is quite blurry.
Every unit of concept map needs to be readable. It should form a meaningful sentence. Concept maps are highly context based so one needs to be as clear as possible to get fruitful results. The underlying theory and focus question provide the context. One can state that the major elements of concept maps are nodes, linking phrases(verbs), cross-links, structure and propositions. An idea or a concept is usually put inside a rectangular shaped box that are called the nodes. The ideas listed in a concept map need to be concise and can be cross linked with each link having its own verb or phrase to explain the relationship.