在脑图（MIND MAPS）发明人托尼巴赞（Tony Buzan）的网站上，对脑图是这样定义的：

A Mind Map is a powerful graphic technique which provides a universal key to unlock the potential of the brain. It harnesses the full range of cortical skills–word, image, number, logic, rhythm, colour and spatial awareness–in a single, uniquely powerful manner. In so doing, it gives you the freedom to roam the infinite expanses of your brain. The Mind Map can be applied to every aspect of life where improved learning and clearer thinking will enhance human performance.

Originated in the late 1960s by Tony Buzan Mind Maps are now used by millions of people around the world – from the very young to the very old – whenever they wish to use their minds more effectively.

Similarly to a road map, a Mind Map will:

Give you an overview of a large subject/area.
Enable you to plan routes/make choices and let you know where you are going and where you have been.
Gather and hold large amounts of data for you.
Encourage problem solving by showing you new creative pathways.
Enable you to be extremely efficient.
Be enjoyable to look at, read, muse over and remember.
Attract and hold your eye/brain.
Let you see the whole picture and the details at the same time.
Assist YOU!

大意是：脑图是一个打开大脑潜能的强有力的图解工具。它同时运用大脑皮层的所有智能，包括词汇，图象，数字，逻辑，韵律，颜色和空间感知。 它可以运用于生活的各个层面，帮助你更有效地学习，更清晰地思维，让你的大脑最佳表现。

脑图由Tony Buzan在六十年代创立。至今，在全球已经为成千上万的人使用。从小孩到老人，只要你想更有效地使用你的大脑， 你就可以使用脑图。

脑图可以帮助你：

    获得一个大课题的全景图
    计划你的前进路径和作选择，知道你要去哪里和你现在在哪里
    获得和掌握大量信息
    创造性地解决问题
    享受阅读，分析和沉思的乐趣
    同时把握全局和细节
    成为高效人士