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Make a concept map from your own notes, no download needed

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text notes, or a photo of a page and get an editable mind map you can explore in your browser.

Create mind maps nowFree · No credit card required

Free account · 3 sets a month · Creates mind maps in seconds

Why a custom map beats a printed template

A printed concept map maker template gives you empty boxes, but the ideas still have to come from you. Upload your lecture slides or reading and DeckOwl pulls the main concepts out of that material, so the first draft already reflects your course.

  • No install or download needed to start
  • Free plan includes 3 generations per month
  • Maps stay editable, so you can reshape them as you learn
  • PDF and DOCX export come with Plus at $99.90/year or $9.99/month
Example cell biology mind map branches
Cell membranePhospholipid bilayer · Selectively permeable · Embedded proteins · Passive and active transport
MitochondriaDouble membrane · Site of cellular respiration · Produces ATP · Has its own circular DNA
NucleusNuclear envelope · Chromatin · Nucleolus builds ribosomes · Pores control transport
Endoplasmic reticulumRough ER has ribosomes · Smooth ER makes lipids · Detoxifies drugs · Connects to nuclear envelope
OsmosisWater moves across membrane · Toward higher solute concentration · Hypotonic causes swelling · Hypertonic causes shrinking
Generate the full set

Works in your browser

Nothing to install. Open DeckOwl, upload your material, and the map builds in the same tab.

Reads your own files

PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text, and photos of pages are read with text recognition, so the map reflects your course.

Editable and explorable

Rename branches, reorganize them, and expand or collapse sections as you study.

How it works

Upload your material

Add a PDF, slides, notes, or a photo of a page.

Generate the map

DeckOwl builds a mind map from the main ideas in your file.

Explore and edit

Reshape branches until the map matches how your course organizes the topic.

Free access covers three generations a month, and you can study the map in the browser at no cost. Exporting to PDF or DOCX is part of the paid Plus plan at $99.90/year or $9.99/month, and students get 40% off with a school email.

Explore related topics

Frequently asked questions

How many branches should a concept map have?

Most students work well with 4 to 7 main branches, each holding a few sub-points. If a branch needs more than that, split it into two linked maps so each one stays readable.

How do I turn lecture notes into a concept map?

Start with the central topic, then list the main ideas from your notes as first-level branches. Add the supporting details under each branch and label the links between related branches.

Is there a free concept map maker I can download?

There is nothing to install, because DeckOwl runs in your browser and the free plan includes 3 generations per month. Exporting to PDF or DOCX requires the Plus plan at $99.90/year or $9.99/month.

Can I edit the map after DeckOwl creates it?

Yes, you can rename branches, reorganize them, and expand or collapse sections as you study.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.