Learn
Mindmap syntax
Learn roots, shapes, indentation, and markdown labels used in the Workspace map template.
On this page9 sections
Syntax cheatsheet
Quick reference for this diagram type
| Concept | Syntax |
|---|---|
| Declare | mindmap |
| Circle root | root((Title)) |
| Square / rounded | id[Title] · id(Title) |
| Cloud / hexagon | id))Title(( · id{{Title}} |
| Hierarchy | indent children under parents |
| Markdown | id["`**bold**`"] |
- 1
Start a mindmap
Begin with mindmap. Unlike flowcharts, hierarchy is expressed with indentation under a root — not with arrows.
Pick one clear root idea; everything else branches from it.
mindmap root((SayDiagram))
Expand - 2
Branches by indentation
Each deeper indent level becomes a child topic. Sibling topics must share the same indent.
Two spaces (or a consistent tab) per level is enough — mixed indentation will nest unexpectedly.
- Tip: Mindmaps ignore edge syntax — don’t use --> here.
mindmap root((SayDiagram)) Create Organize ShareExpand - 3
Node shapes
Shape wrappers change how a topic looks. Double parentheses ((text)) draw a circle — great for roots.
Squares [], rounded (), clouds )) ((, and hexagons {{ }} help distinguish kinds of topics when the map grows.
mindmap root((Idea)) Square[Topic] Round(Topic) Cloud))Topic(( Hex{{Topic}}Expand - 4
Deeper nesting
Add another indent level for sub-features. Keep depth shallow (three or four levels) so the map stays glanceable.
Group by user goal (Create / Organize / Share) rather than by implementation detail.
mindmap root((SayDiagram)) Create Editor Import Share Links ExportExpand - 5
Markdown in labels
Wrap markdown in quotes and backticks when you need emphasis inside a node.
Use this sparingly — bold roots work; bold everywhere becomes noise.
- Tip: Markdown labels use quotes and backticks, e.g. Editor["`**Live** preview`"].
mindmap root((SayDiagram)) Create Live preview ImportExpand - 6
Keep labels scannable
Short nouns work better than long sentences. Prefer Editor over “The visual diagram editor surface.”
When a branch grows past five children, split it into a second map or promote a child to its own root for a dedicated page.
- Tip: If icon syntax fails in your renderer, remove it — text hierarchy still carries the meaning.
mindmap root((Workspace)) Create Editor Templates Organize Folders Favorites Share Public link EmbedExpand - 7
Put it together: Workspace map
Nest concrete features under Create, Organize, and Share to match the examples template.
mindmap root((SayDiagram)) Create Editor Import mmd Organize Folders Favorites Share Links ExportExpand
Check your level
80% or higher certifies this lesson. You'll get 3–5 random questions from a larger bank.