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Turn your notes into a concept map you can edit and explore

A concept map shows how ideas connect. Upload a PDF, DOCX, slides, or a photo of your notes, and DeckOwl builds a map you can change and explore.

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What a concept map definition covers

Start with a clear concept map definition: a diagram where concepts appear as nodes and labeled arrows show how each pair of concepts relates. The labels matter as much as the boxes, because a line reading "causes" or "is part of" turns a list of terms into an explanation.

Each node holds one concept, written as a short term or phrase.
Each link has a label that states the relationship in a few words.
Higher-level concepts sit above the ideas that support them.
Cross-links connect ideas from different branches that depend on each other.

Example concept map topics for biology students

PhotosynthesisLight reactions · Calvin cycle · Chloroplast structure · Carbon fixation

Cell membranePhospholipid bilayer · Embedded proteins · Selective transport · Cholesterol role

Natural selectionVariation · Inheritance · Differential survival · Change in allele frequency

Krebs cycleAcetyl-CoA input · NADH production · FADH2 production · ATP yield

Immune responseAntigen presentation · B cell activation · Antibody production · Memory cells

Generate the full set

Editable nodes

Rename, move, or delete any idea in the map so it matches your course material.

Explorable layout

Expand and collapse branches to focus on one part of the topic at a time.

Built from your material

Concept maps come from the PDFs, notes, and images you upload, not a generic template.

How it works

Upload your source

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text notes, or a photo of a page.

Review the map

Check the main concepts and linking phrases, then adjust anything that looks off.

Study from it

Explore the map in the browser, or turn the same material into flashcards and quizzes.

A useful concept map usually has a broad idea at the top, narrower concepts below it, and cross-links between branches that share a theme. Students often confuse concept maps with mind maps, which radiate from one central word and rarely use labeled links.

Building a map from your own lecture notes or textbook chapter tends to reveal gaps faster than rereading, since every missing link shows up as a blank line you cannot label.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a concept map and a mind map?

A concept map uses labeled links to show the relationship between each pair of ideas, while a mind map radiates outward from one central topic with unlabeled branches. Concept maps suit explaining how a subject fits together.

How do I write a good concept map?

Start with the most general concept, list the ideas that directly support it, and label every link with a short relationship phrase. Then look for connections across branches and add those as cross-links.

Is exporting a concept map free?

Exports are a paid feature. The Plus plan includes PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export, while the free plan lets you study maps in the browser.

Do I need a credit card to start?

No. You can start on the free plan without a credit card, which includes 3 generations per month. Students can get 40% off a paid plan with a school email.

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Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.