Concept maps are a tool to help you:

• explore your topic;
• discover possible lines of inquiry;
• consider search terms;
• brainstorm resources to investigate.

Ask yourself: what do I already know about my topic? what am I curious about? what kind of data do I need, and where am I likely to find that data? Creating a map of these subtopics that will help you flesh out your topic. Keep in mind that this map may include as many questions as it does ideas...after all, you haven't researched your topic yet! Also remember that you are not expected to address all of the subtopics in your work, nor would it be wise for you to try. You will likely focus on just one or two areas of your map for your final research. 

The process is simple: start with your big, broad topic in the middle of your page. It can be a population, a bodily system, an injury, a type of rehabilitation, an element of biomechanics, etc.  

• Take 5 minutes and brainstorm aspects of that topic that interest, confuse, or intrigue you. Ask yourself:
  • How does this work? 
  • Who does it affect?
  • How can it be measured or studied? 
  • What is already known? What is unknown?   
• In the space around the central concept, make notes of words or phrases that answer the above questions
• Continue to fill out your branches with ideas or questions about your topic, or about the types of resources you may wish to start with.