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Make a concept map from your notes without a credit card

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, pasted notes, or a photo of a page. DeckOwl builds an editable mind map you can expand, rearrange, and review branch by branch.

Create mind maps nowFree · No credit card required

Free · First set needs no signup · Creates mind maps in seconds

How a concept map maker fits into studying

A concept map maker is most useful when you already have lecture slides or a textbook chapter and want the big ideas laid out before a test. DeckOwl builds the map from your own files, so the structure reflects what your instructor actually covered.

  • Start with no credit card and try a map on your own notes.
  • Edit node labels and branch order before you study from the map.
  • Review the map one branch at a time instead of memorizing it all at once.
  • Export maps to PDF on the Plus plan when you need a printed copy.
Example mind map branches for high school biology
Cell membranePhospholipid bilayer · Selective permeability · Passive and active transport
MitochondriaSite of cellular respiration · Produces ATP · Contains its own DNA
NucleusHolds genetic material · Controls gene expression · Surrounded by a nuclear envelope
RibosomesMake proteins · Found free or on rough ER · Built from rRNA and protein
Endoplasmic reticulumRough ER makes proteins · Smooth ER makes lipids · Smooth ER detoxifies drugs
Generate the full set

Editable maps

Rename, move, and add nodes after the AI builds the first draft from your material.

Explorable structure

Expand and collapse branches to move from main topics down to supporting details.

Works with your files

Upload PDFs, DOCX, PPTX, plain notes, or photos of pages read with text recognition.

How it works

Add your material

Upload a file, paste your notes, or photograph a page from your textbook.

Generate the map

The AI pulls out the main ideas and groups related concepts into branches.

Edit and explore

Adjust labels and layout, then expand branches as you review the material.

The free plan lets you study in the browser with 3 generations per month. Exporting to PDF, DOCX, Anki, or CSV requires Plus at $39/year or $7.99/month, which also gives you unlimited generations. Pro adds a stronger AI model and bulk upload.

Explore related topics

Frequently asked questions

How many branches should a concept map for biology have?

Most chapter-level maps work well with 5 to 8 main branches, each with 3 to 5 sub-points. Fewer branches usually means the topics are too broad to review quickly.

How do I study a concept map instead of just looking at it?

Cover the labels and try to name each branch from memory, then check yourself against the map. Redraw one branch from scratch each session to see where your recall breaks down.

Can I try DeckOwl without a credit card?

Yes, you can start without a credit card. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser, while exports require the Plus plan.

Is the free plan enough to map a class?

The free plan covers a few chapters at 3 generations per month. Plus removes the cap with unlimited generations and adds PDF and DOCX export.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.