Brace Map Template

A brace map is the Thinking Map for part–whole relationships: the whole on the left, braces opening to its major parts, then sub-parts. Use it for physical structures (a plant, a bicycle, a cell). For categories, use a tree diagram instead.

WholePartSub-partSub-partPartSub-partPartSub-part
Blank template. Best for: Students analysing physical objects or structures; Thinking Maps classrooms.

How to fill it in

  1. The whole object on the left.
  2. Its major parts, top to bottom.
  3. Sub-parts of each part.
  4. Check: is every item a physical piece of the thing on its left?

Example: Parts of a flower

FlowerPetalsSepalsStamenAntherFilamentPistilStigmaStyleOvaryStem
Show as text outline
Flower
- Petals
- Sepals
- Stamen
  - Anther
  - Filament
- Pistil
  - Stigma
  - Style
  - Ovary
- Stem

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Questions people ask

How do I use this brace map template?

Click “Use blank template” to open it in the free editor, select any idea and start typing to replace it. Tab adds a new branch, Enter adds a sibling. Your map saves in your browser automatically.

Can I download it as a PDF or image?

Yes. In the editor, open Export and choose PDF (A4), PNG or SVG. Markdown gives you the outline as text.

Can I print a blank copy?

Click “Use blank template”, then Export → PDF straight away. You get an empty A4 worksheet to fill in by hand.