Overview
Folding topics helps you simplify a large map by temporarily hiding parts you do not need to see. You can unfold them again whenever you want to bring the details back into view.
Mindmup lets you fold or unfold a branch, work one level at a time, or fold and unfold all topics in the map.
Fold or unfold a topic
To fold or unfold an entire branch, you can use the View menu:
- Select the topic you want to fold or unfold.
- Click the Mindmup icon in the top-left corner of the editor.
- Select View › Fold/unfold.
- Choose Fold/unfold subtree.
You can also access this option directly from a topic:
- Right-click the topic you want to fold or unfold.
- Select Fold/unfold.
- Choose Fold/unfold subtree.
For faster access, select the topic and press F on your keyboard. This folds or unfolds the subtree below the selected topic.
Fold or unfold one level
Use one-level folding when you want to hide or reveal topics gradually instead of folding or unfolding an entire branch.
You can access these options from the View menu:
- Click the Mindmup icon in the top-left corner of the editor.
- Select View › Fold/unfold.
- Choose Fold one level or Unfold one level.
You can also access them directly from a topic:
- Right-click the topic you want to fold or unfold.
- Select Fold/unfold.
- Choose Fold one level or Unfold one level.
For faster access, select a topic and press Alt + F on Windows or Option + F on Mac to fold one level below it. Press Shift + F on Windows or Mac to unfold one level.
One-level folding is especially useful for maps with several nested levels because you can control how much detail is visible at a time.
Fold or unfold all topics
You can fold all topics when you want a simpler overview of the entire map.
To fold or unfold all topics from the View menu:
- Click the Mindmup icon in the top-left corner of the editor.
- Select View › Fold/unfold.
- Choose Fold all nodes or Unfold all nodes.
You can also access these options directly from the canvas:
- Right-click an empty area of the map.
- Select Fold all nodes or Unfold all nodes.
Example use cases
Folding topics can help you:
- Focus on one section of a large map.
- Hide details while reviewing the main structure.
- Make a complex map easier to navigate.
- Keep detailed branches hidden while presenting or reviewing a map.
- Reveal information gradually as you work through different sections.
For example, if you use Mindmup to create a study guide, you can fold the detailed notes under each main topic. This gives you a quick overview of the subject. Unfold a branch when you are ready to review that section in more detail.
Tips
- Press F to quickly fold or unfold the subtree below a selected topic.
- Use one-level folding when you want more control over how much information is visible.
- Use Fold all nodes to get a clearer overview of a large or detailed map.
- After changing which branches are visible, use View › Zoom to fit to fit the visible map on screen.
- Folding does not change the structure of your map. Your hidden topics remain in their original locations.
Common questions
Can I continue editing while some branches are folded?
Yes. You can continue working with the visible parts of your map while other branches remain folded. Unfold a branch when you need to work with the topics inside it.
Why can't I see some of my topics?
A branch may be folded. Try unfolding the parent topic or use Unfold all nodes to make all branches visible again.
What is the difference between folding a subtree and folding one level?
Folding a subtree hides the branch below the selected topic. Fold one level gives you more gradual control by folding only one level below the selected topic at a time.
Related features
- How to Select Topics
- How to Move, Rearrange, Nest, Copy and Paste Topics
- How to Use Keyboard Shortcuts
- How to Zoom and Navigate
- How to Use View Options
Keep large maps easier to navigate
Fold topics when you want to reduce the amount of information on screen and focus on what matters right now. You can use it in a map you are already working on, or start with a blank map and practice folding branches as you add more detail.