Mindmaps

Yup. I use a program called Vue, also free. I sketch out a top level diagram, with branches to decide how things might (but probably won't ;-) turn out, then detail and eliminate unused branches as the campaign progresses.

Here's one from near the end of a small campaign:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/3024799/Campaign.jpeg

 

I have been using Mindmaps for both work and play for 10+ years by now.

Two current software recommendations:

1) Freeplane/Freemind (free): Works quite well, crossplatform (Java, Win/Mac/Linux). I have recently started to use two power features: a) Link a node to an external URL (to link to the appropriate page on d20pfsrd.com for monsters/spells/items/special rules); b) Link to an external file (e.g., Word .doc or OpenOffice .odt, to open NPC or location descriptions). So, with a single click, I can get at the precise info that I require.

2) Curio (commercial, Mac only): This one I started using just a few days ago. The power is amazing! In addition to the File/URL links mentioned for Freemind, I can also manage maps directly in the program. E.g., I can jump from a map feature to the mindmap node describing that room, or click a mind map node to jump to the map at the specific location described by that node. I can also link a mindmap node to a specific page in a PDF, and then with a single click jump to that page in the PDF viewer (Skim, in my case).

The efficiency of my GM prep-work has improved tremendously using these tools! I have basically gone entirely paperless in the last few months.

 

I personally use Realmsworks because it will do the exact same thing and will also add how the different topics feel towards each other.

 

Realmworks, The keep, Excel documents, word documents,evernote

 

I agree with Owlbear. The biggest problem I have with Realm Works is reminding myself to not continue to add more and more detail when don't need to. I personally love Realm Works because it can be both simple and very complex if you need it to be and still be interconnected.

I personally map with Campaign Cartographer 3, build and track stories with Realm Works, build and track PCs, NPCs, and monsters with Hero Lab, and table top play with d20.

 

currently i use Realm works as a place holder for information although i have been inputting b4 the lost city into its own realm as i update the monsters in herolab.

For mapping i play with hexographer, inkarnate, Other World Mapper, Campaign Cartographer 3+, Fractal Terrains, and Fractal Mapper (it has a built in scenario builder). for 5e I output my monsters and NPC in a custom output rather than a full character sheet.