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Turn your notes into a free, editable mind map

DeckOwl builds a mind map from your PDF, Word file, slides, or typed notes. It runs in your browser, so there is nothing to install, and you can start on the free plan without a credit card.

Create mind maps nowFree · No credit card required

Free · First set needs no signup · Creates mind maps in seconds

Why a browser tool can replace a desktop download

Plenty of mind map making software is sold as a desktop install, but most students only need a map from one set of lecture notes or a textbook chapter. DeckOwl works in the browser, so you skip the installer and begin with your own material.

  • No installer or download needed to begin
  • Maps built from PDFs, DOCX, PPTX, notes, and photos of pages
  • Editable branches you can reorganize as you study
  • Free plan with 3 generations per month and no credit card
Example cell biology mind map branches (the keyword names no subject, so this uses a common study topic)
Cell membranePhospholipid bilayer · Selective permeability · Passive and active transport
MitochondriaSite of cellular respiration · Produces ATP · Contains its own circular DNA
NucleusHolds genetic material · Nuclear envelope with pores · Site of DNA transcription
Endoplasmic reticulumRough ER makes proteins · Smooth ER makes lipids · Smooth ER detoxifies drugs
Golgi apparatusModifies and sorts proteins · Packages vesicles · Ships products to the membrane
Generate the full set

Works from your own material

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text notes, or a photo of a page. Text recognition reads the photo so you can map it too.

Editable and explorable

Rearrange branches, rename nodes, and expand or collapse sections to see how ideas connect.

Study tools from the same notes

Turn the same material into flashcards with spaced repetition or into quizzes with explanations.

How it works

Upload your notes

Drop in a file or paste text. Nothing needs to be downloaded or installed first.

Let the AI build the map

DeckOwl pulls out the main topics and groups the supporting points under them.

Edit and explore

Change the layout, add your own branches, and click through the map to review each topic.

The free plan gives you 3 generations per month, and you can study and explore the map in the browser. Exporting is a paid feature: Plus includes PDF and DOCX export, and Pro adds stronger AI models and bulk upload.

Because the map comes from your files, it reflects your course rather than a generic template. Edit the branches to match what your instructor emphasized before you review.

Explore related topics

Frequently asked questions

How do I make a mind map that helps me remember a biology chapter?

Put the chapter title in the center, then use one main branch for each major topic, such as cell membrane or organelles. Add two to four sub-points under each branch and check that you can explain each one from memory.

How many main branches should a cell biology mind map have?

Most chapters work well with five to eight main branches, one for each major structure or process. If a branch has more than four sub-points, split it into two smaller branches so each one is easy to review.

Is there a free mind map software download I can install?

DeckOwl does not require an installer because it runs in your browser. The free plan includes 3 generations per month, and you can study the map in the browser.

Can I export my mind map?

Exports are part of the paid plans. Plus includes PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export, and the free plan lets you study in the browser without exporting.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.