A mind map notes app that turns your PDFs into editable branches
Upload PDFs, DOCX, PPTX, or notes and get an editable mind map you can explore. No credit card needed to start.
What makes a mind map notes app worth using
Notes pile up faster than most people can review them, and a mind map notes app shows how each idea connects to the rest of the topic. Many students try a few tools before settling on one, so it helps to know what to check first.
- Accepts the files you already have, such as PDF, DOCX, PPTX, and plain text.
- Lets you edit every node, so the map reflects your course rather than a generic outline.
- Lets you explore branches by expanding and collapsing them.
- The free plan includes 3 generations per month, and exports are part of the paid Plus plan.
Upload what you already have
Drop in PDFs, DOCX or PPTX files, plain notes, or photos of pages read with text recognition.
Editable branches
Rename, move, or delete any node so the map matches how your course is organized.
Explore the structure
Expand and collapse branches to focus on one topic at a time instead of scrolling through a wall of text.
How it works
Add your notes
Upload a file or paste text from a lecture or chapter.
Generate the map
DeckOwl builds a central topic with main branches and sub-points from your material.
Edit and explore
Reshape the branches, then click through them to review each idea.
Look for an editable map rather than a static image. You should be able to rename branches, reorder them, and collapse sections when you only need the big picture. Starting from your own PDFs or class notes matters more than a long list of templates.
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Free mind map app for notes and PDFs
Turn PDFs and notes into an editable mind map. Start free, 3 generations a month.
Free mind mapping app for students
Turn lecture notes and PDFs into an editable mind map, free to start, with no credit card needed.
Frequently asked questions
How do I organize the causes of the French Revolution in a mind map?
Start with a central node for the Revolution, then create main branches for the fiscal crisis, Enlightenment ideas, and the harvest failures of 1788 to 1789. Add the specific events under each branch so the connections are visible.
How many branches should a mind map have?
Most topics work well with 4 to 7 main branches, each with 2 to 4 sub-points. If a branch grows beyond that, split it into its own map so each one stays readable.
Is there a free plan?
Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and lets you study in the browser, but exporting is a paid feature.
What does Plus cost?
Plus is $39 per year or $7.99 per month and adds unlimited generations plus PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export. Students get 40% off with a school email.
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