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Turn your notes into a concept map outline you can edit

Skip the generic template. Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, notes, or a photo of a page, and get an editable mind map with branches you can explore.

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Why build from your own material

A printed concept map outline example shows one topic's structure, but it cannot show the terms, examples, and emphasis from your own course.

Upload the slides or reading your instructor actually assigned
Edit branch names so they match your course vocabulary
Expand each sub-point until you can explain it without notes
Turn weak branches into flashcards or quiz questions

Example photosynthesis concept map outline

Light-dependent reactionsOccur in thylakoid membranes · Split water and release oxygen · Produce ATP and NADPH

Calvin cycleTakes place in the stroma · Fixes carbon dioxide using RuBisCO · Uses ATP and NADPH to build sugar

Inputs and outputsLight, water, and carbon dioxide go in · Glucose and oxygen come out

Chloroplast structureThylakoids stacked into grana · Stroma surrounds the thylakoids · Double membrane envelope

Factors that limit the rateLight intensity · Carbon dioxide concentration · Temperature

Generate the full set

Starts from your material

Upload PDFs, Word or PowerPoint files, plain notes, or photos of pages read with text recognition.

Editable branches

Rename, move, or delete any branch so the outline matches how your course organizes the topic.

Explorable mind map

Expand and collapse sections to move from the main idea down to the details you need to memorize.

How it works

Upload your notes

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or a photo of your lecture slides or textbook page.

Review the outline

Check the main branches and sub-points, then edit anything that does not match your class material.

Study from the map

Explore the branches in the browser, then turn key terms into flashcards or quizzes.

Starting from your notes keeps the outline tied to your readings and lectures. You can reorganize branches before an exam, which tests recall better than copying a sample layout.

Use the map as a plan: check each branch, explain it aloud, then return to the source to fill any gaps.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I build a concept map outline for biology?

Start with the central topic in the middle, then add four to six main branches for the major processes or structures. Under each branch, list two to four sub-points such as inputs, outputs, and key terms.

How many branches should a concept map outline have?

There is no fixed number. Use the main ideas your lecture or reading actually covers, and split a branch only when it holds several distinct sub-points.

Is DeckOwl free to use?

The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser. Exports are paid features, and Plus starts at $39/year or $7.99/month with unlimited generations.

Can I export my mind map?

Exporting is a paid feature. Plus includes PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export, and students get 40% off with a school email.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.