Inspiration Overview

Inspiration is a program that lets you think and learn visually. It provides the tools to create a picture in the form of a diagram or create in outline form. Visual representations enable you to see how one idea relates to another.

Inspiration has two views: Diagram view and Outline view. It is easy to alternate between the two as you work.

There are a variety of diagrams that can be created with the program. The kind of diagram depends on the idea you want to develop. Some of the types of diagrams you can create are:

· Concept map - A hierarchical diagram used to represent a set of concepts starting the most general or important, then working down to more specific details. This type of diagram is often used to illustrate scientific or historical concepts.

· Idea Map - Idea mapping is a brainstorming technique used to generate ideas. This diagram starts with the main idea in the middle of the screen. Ideas branch out from the main idea with links. Idea maps can be used not only for brainstorming, but also problem solving, report writing, and planning.

· Web - A web is a visual map that shows how different pieces of information relate to each other. The web has a main idea at the center with different categories connected to it. It is most useful when analyzing a story or brainstorming ideas for a plan or written report.

· Storyboard - This type of diagram is a visual way to organize projects such as multimedia presentations or web page design. A storyboard helps you plan what you want to say and show and decide where ideas belong. In a storyboard, each symbol can represent a different slide, screen or page.

The uses of outlines are limitless. You can organize written documents by providing a framework for your ideas. Outlines are handy when planning and structuring your ideas in writing. Working in this view makes it easy to see how ideas are organized. Some ways to use the outline feature are:

· Creating the structure for written reports and stories

· Planning and organizing notes

· Writing instructional materials

The program will open in the diagram view. To change to outline view, click the outline icon on the toolbar.

Inspiration Toolbars

There are two main toolbars within Inspiration, one in the Diagram view and one in the Outline view.

Here is the Diagram toolbar. You can use these tools to add symbols or links to your diagram, and to arrange the diagram in a variety of ways.

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Here is the Outline toolbar. The tools enable you to add topics, subtopics, notes and other editing features.

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