Turn your notes into a free visual mind map
Upload a PDF, DOCX, slide deck, or photo of a page, and DeckOwl draws the main ideas as branches you can rearrange, expand, and explore.
Why a visual layout helps you remember
When you need a free visual mind map, the quickest start is the material you already have. A map shows how a lecture's ideas connect, so you can see the structure of a topic instead of scrolling through pages of notes.
- Shows the parent topic and how each subtopic links to it
- Lets you edit and reorganize branches after generation
- Works from PDFs, DOCX files, slides, text, and photographed pages
- Pairs with flashcards and quizzes made from the same material
Starts from your own material
Drop in lecture notes, a textbook chapter, or a photo of a whiteboard. The map is built from what you actually need to learn.
Editable branches
Rename, move, or add nodes after the map is generated so it matches how you think about the topic.
Explore at your own pace
Open a branch to see its sub-points, then collapse it when you are ready to test yourself on the rest.
How it works
Upload your notes
Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text file, or image. Pages photographed for text are read with text recognition.
Generate the map
DeckOwl sorts the material into a main topic with branches and sub-points you can see at a glance.
Edit and study
Adjust the map, then use it in the browser to review each branch before you move on to flashcards or a quiz.
The free plan includes 3 generations per month and lets you study in the browser, so you can test the layout on a real chapter before deciding whether you need more. Exports and unlimited generations are part of the paid plans.
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Frequently asked questions
How many branches should a mind map of cell biology have?
Aim for one concept per branch with two to four sub-points under it. If a branch grows past that, split it into two branches so each one stays easy to scan.
How do I study from a mind map instead of just looking at it?
Cover a branch and say its sub-points from memory before you check. Redraw the map from scratch a few days in a row to find which links you still miss.
Is the free plan enough to make a mind map?
The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser, with no credit card needed to start. Unlimited generations are part of Plus, which costs $39/year or $7.99/month.
Can I export my mind map?
Exports are paid features and are not included in the free plan. Plus includes PDF and DOCX export, along with Anki and CSV export for other study materials.
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