Turn any PDF or set of notes into an editable mind map
Google Docs can hold a mind map you draw yourself. DeckOwl reads your PDF, DOCX, PPTX, or notes and builds the main branches and sub-points for you, so you can explore and edit the result.
Two ways to build a mind map, and when each one works
Google Docs does not generate mind maps on its own, so the manual route to how to make a mind map in Google Docs is to insert a drawing, place a central topic box, and add branches with connector lines. That works for a short outline you want to control line by line.
- Upload PDFs, Word files, slides, plain text, or photos of pages.
- Get a mind map that is organized around the ideas in your material.
- Edit branches directly, then study the same content with flashcards or quizzes.
- Export options such as PDF, DOCX, and Anki are part of the Plus plan.
Branches from your own material
Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or a photo of your page, and get a map built from what your material actually says.
Editable and explorable
Rename branches, move ideas around, and expand or collapse sections as you study instead of redrawing shapes by hand.
Study tools from the same source
Turn the same notes into flashcards with spaced repetition or into quizzes with explanations.
How it works
Upload your material
Add the PDF, slides, document, or notes you need to review.
Check the central topic and branches
Read the main branches DeckOwl proposes and rename or regroup anything that does not match your course.
Explore, edit, and study
Expand branches, adjust the layout, and use the map as a starting point for review.
For longer lecture notes or a chapter-length PDF, DeckOwl reads the file and proposes the main branches and sub-points, which you can then rename, rearrange, or expand. Start with the free plan, which needs no credit card, and test it on one of your own documents first.
Explore related topics
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Frequently asked questions
How do I organize a mind map for World War I causes?
Start with a central box labeled World War I and use the main causes as branches, such as militarism, alliances, imperialism, nationalism, and the assassination that triggered the crisis. Put specific events and facts under each branch so you can see how the causes connected.
How many branches should a study mind map have?
Most history topics work well with four to six main branches, each holding two to four details. If a branch grows much larger than that, split it into sub-branches so the map stays readable at a glance.
Can I export a DeckOwl mind map?
Export options such as PDF and DOCX are included in the Plus plan, which costs $39 per year or $7.99 per month. The free plan lets you study in the browser without exports.
Is there a free way to try DeckOwl?
Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and browser study, and you do not need a credit card to start.
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