Use a mind map app that turns your notes into a map
Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file or photo of a page. DeckOwl builds a branching mind map of the main topics and sub-points, which you can edit and explore.
Why a mind map app works better with your own material
A mind map app is most useful when it starts from the material you actually have to learn. Upload lecture slides, a textbook chapter PDF, or a photo of handwritten notes, and DeckOwl turns it into a branching map of main ideas and supporting details. You can open it in your browser with no download needed to begin.
- Central topic with main branches drawn from your own source
- Sub-points you can rename, move, or delete
- Branches that connect directly to flashcards and quizzes
- No credit card needed to start on the free plan
Built from your material
Start from the PDF, slides, or notes you already have. The map follows the structure of your source instead of a blank canvas.
Editable after generation
Rename branches, reorganize sub-points, and fix anything the first pass missed so the map matches how your course frames the topic.
Explore at your own pace
Follow each branch from the main topic down to the details, then turn any section into flashcards or a quiz when you want to test recall.
How it works
Upload your notes
Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text file, or a photo of a page. Text recognition reads images.
Generate the map
DeckOwl organizes the content into a central topic, main branches, and sub-points.
Edit and explore
Adjust the layout and wording, then move through the branches to check what you understand.
Because the map is editable, you can correct it where the first pass misses something or where your instructor uses different terms. Explore each branch, then turn sections into flashcards with spaced repetition or a quiz with explanations when you are ready to test yourself.
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Turn PDFs and notes into an editable mind map. Start free, 3 generations a month.
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Turn lecture notes and PDFs into an editable mind map, free to start, with no credit card needed.
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Frequently asked questions
What should a biology mind map include?
Put the main topic in the center, then add a branch for each major structure or process. Under each branch, list key terms and their functions so you can check recall of each part.
How do I study from a mind map effectively?
Close the map and redraw it from memory, then compare it with the original to find gaps. Quiz yourself on one branch at a time until you can explain each sub-point in your own words.
Is there a free mind map app option?
The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser. You can start without a credit card.
Can I export my mind maps?
The free plan does not include exports. Paid plans add PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export, and Pro adds QTI 2.1 and Moodle XML.
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