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Turn your own class notes into a concept map you can edit

Samples show the layout, but the map that helps most is built from your lecture slides, readings, or notes. Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text file, or a photo of a page and get an editable, explorable mind map.

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How a concept map sample becomes a study tool

A good starting point for any concept map samples for students is the layout: a central idea, main branches, and short supporting points. The sample shows the shape, but the content that helps you pass the exam comes from your own course.

Start with the central idea from your syllabus or lecture title
Keep each branch to one main concept
Add short phrases, not full sentences, to each node
Check every branch against your source material before you study

Example photosynthesis concept map branches

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

Calvin cycleTakes place in the stroma · Fixes carbon dioxide into sugars · Uses ATP and NADPH from the light reactions

Chloroplast structureThylakoids stacked into grana · Stroma surrounds the thylakoids · Chlorophyll sits in thylakoid membranes

Inputs to photosynthesisLight energy · Water · Carbon dioxide

Outputs of photosynthesisGlucose or other sugars · Oxygen released to air

Generate the full set

Built from your material

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or a photo of a page. The map uses the concepts in your own course material.

Editable branches

Rename, move, or delete nodes so the map matches how your class organizes the topic.

Explorable structure

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

How it works

Upload your notes

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text file, or a photo of a page from your class.

Generate the mind map

DeckOwl pulls out the main concepts and arranges them into branches.

Edit and explore

Adjust the branches, then expand each one to check the links between ideas.

Map your own material by uploading it and letting the tool sort the key terms into branches. Then edit the map so it matches your lecture order and check each branch against your textbook. Free accounts can study the map in the browser, and paid plans add exports.

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Example mind map branches on photosynthesis, plus how to make your own from notes.

Frequently asked questions

How do I start a concept map for a biology unit?

Write the unit's main topic in the center, then list the major processes or structures as first-level branches. Add the supporting facts under each branch and draw links where one idea causes or depends on another.

What makes a concept map different from an outline?

An outline runs in a single line from top to bottom, while a concept map shows how ideas connect across branches. Those cross-links are what help you explain how concepts relate on an exam.

Can I export my concept map?

Exporting is a paid feature. Plus includes PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export, and Pro adds QTI 2.1 and Moodle XML export.

Is there a free plan?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and lets you study in the browser, but it does not include exports. No credit card is needed to start.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.