Draw a mind map online from your own notes or PDF
Learn what a useful mind map looks like, then turn your notes or PDF into an editable, explorable map in a few clicks.
What makes a mind map easy to follow
A good mind map starts with one central idea and a few main branches, and you can draw a mind map online by hand on a whiteboard tool or let DeckOwl build the first draft from your own material.
- Put the main topic in the center and keep the wording short.
- Limit the first pass to three to seven main branches.
- Use one color or icon per branch so related ideas stay visually grouped.
- Check the map against the source and add anything that is missing.
Starts from your material
Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text notes, or a photo of a page, and the map is built from what you actually studied.
Editable branches
Rename, move, or delete any node so the map matches how you think about the topic, not just how the AI first arranged it.
Explore at your own pace
Expand and collapse branches to focus on one section at a time, then check your recall with flashcards or a quiz.
How it works
Add your source
Upload a file or paste your notes. Start with the chapter or lecture you need to review.
Generate the map
DeckOwl proposes a central topic, main branches, and sub-points based on the material.
Edit and study
Adjust the branches, then explore the map node by node. Free accounts study in the browser.
Keep each branch to a single concept and add short sub-points underneath. If a label needs a full sentence, it probably belongs in a separate note or flashcard instead of on the map.
Once the structure is right, review it by covering branches and recalling their contents. That retrieval practice does more for memory than rereading the map.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I decide what goes on each branch of a mind map?
Start with the main headings in your notes or textbook chapter, since each heading usually becomes a branch. Then add the key terms and facts under each heading as sub-points.
How many branches should a study mind map have?
Most useful maps have three to seven main branches. If you have more, split the topic into two maps so each one stays readable.
Can I export my mind map?
Exporting is a paid feature. The Plus plan includes PDF, DOCX, Anki and CSV export, and it costs $99.90/year or $9.99/month.
Do I need a credit card to try it?
No. You can start on the free plan, which includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser, without entering a credit card.
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