Turn your notes into an editable concept map
Blank concept map downloads leave the hard work to you. Upload your course material and get a map with the main ideas already placed, ready to rearrange in your browser.
Why a generated map beats a blank download
Most free concept map templates are empty grids you fill in by hand, so the structure rarely matches your course. A free editable concept map template built from your own PDF or lecture notes starts with the ideas your instructor actually covers.
- Starts from your own notes or slides instead of a blank grid
- Branches and sub-points can be rearranged and edited in the browser
- Works with PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text, and photos of pages
- Free plan includes 3 generations per month with no credit card needed
Built from your material
Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text, or a photo of your notes, and the map uses the terms and ideas from your own course.
Editable and explorable
Move branches, expand sub-points, and reorganize the layout to match how you think about the topic.
Study in the browser
Use the free plan to create and study maps without installing anything. Exports to other formats are part of the paid plans.
How it works
Add your material
Upload a PDF, slides, a Word file, or photos of pages. Plain text notes work too.
Generate the map
DeckOwl reads the material and organizes the central topic into main branches and sub-points.
Edit and study
Rearrange branches, add your own links, and explore the map to check what you understand.
Start with the central topic, then let the map pull out the main branches and their sub-points. You can drag branches around, delete what you do not need, and add links between related ideas until the layout makes sense to you.
Because the map comes from your material, it is also a study tool. Click through the branches to test yourself on each concept before an exam.
Explore related topics
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Editable Mind Map Templates
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Editable Mind Map Template from Your Notes
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Free Concept Map Maker, No Download
Turn your own notes or PDFs into an editable concept map in your browser. No install.
Concept Map Template From Your Notes
Turn your PDFs or notes into an editable mind map, no blank template needed.
Frequently asked questions
How many branches should a concept map have?
Most study maps work well with 4 to 7 main branches, each holding 2 to 4 sub-points. If a map needs more, the topic may be better split into two smaller maps.
How do I make a concept map for cell biology?
Put cell structure in the center, then add a branch for each organelle or structure. Under each branch, list its function and how it connects to the others.
Can I download my map for free?
The free plan lets you create and study maps in the browser, with 3 generations per month. Exporting files requires a paid plan, starting at $7.99 per month or $39 per year for Plus.
Do I need a credit card to start?
No. You can start on the free plan without entering a credit card, and students get 40% off with a school email.
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