How to Use Heuristica

Getting started with Heuristica

In this guide, you will learn how to create AI-generated concept and mind maps using Heuristica, allowing you to visualise complex topics quickly and effectively. By the end, you'll be able to transform dense information into clear, concise maps.

Step 1: Sign up and set up

1. Go to Heuristica's website.
2. Click on the “Sign Up” button in the top right corner.
3. Fill in your details or sign up using your Google account.
4. Once signed up, log in to your new account.

Step 2: Your first mind map

1. After logging in, click on the “Create New Map” button on your dashboard.
2. In the pop-up, enter a topic you want to explore, such as "Quantum Physics."
3. Click “Generate Map.” The AI will pull data from sources like arXiv and Wikipedia.
4. Once the map is generated, click on any node to expand it and view more detailed information.
5. You can drag and drop nodes to rearrange them or connect related concepts by clicking on the “Add Connection” button.

Step 3: Get better results

1. Use the “Search” bar at the top to pull in specific articles or videos related to your topic for more tailored results.
2. Adjust the settings in the “Map Settings” menu to change the layout or colour scheme for better visualisation.
3. Regularly save your work by clicking the “Save Map” button to avoid losing any changes.

Pro tip

Use the “Import” function to upload a PDF of a research paper. Heuristica can extract key concepts from it, helping you create a more focused mind map based on specific content.

Common mistake to avoid

Avoid using overly broad topics when generating your first map. This can lead to cluttered and confusing results. Instead, start with a specific question or theme to get clearer, more relevant information.