Because concept maps illustrate a central theme and related themes, using these maps help focus a topic and create search strategies.From a concept map, like the one illustrated on the death penalty it is possible to:
- Narrow down your topic (e.g., death penalty and age)
- Add a clarification term to focus the topic (e.g., death penalty and age and public opinion)
- Create a search strategy using synonyms (e.g., death penalty or capital punishment; age or minimum age or juveniles; public opinion or public attitudes)

Borrowed from University of West Florida Libraries