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Turn any reading assignment into a mind map with AI

DeckOwl reads your chapter, article or notes and builds an editable, explorable mind map so you can see how the ideas connect.

Create mind maps nowFree · No credit card required

Drop files here or browsePDF, DOCX, PPTX, text or photos of your notes · several files with Plus

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

Why a visual map helps with difficult reading

Building a visual outline is one of the most practical ways to make sense of a dense text, and it works best when the map is drawn from the text itself. Used this way, reading mind maps show how the central argument connects to its evidence, terms and open questions.

Shows how the main idea connects to supporting evidence
Lets you add questions and notes directly on each branch
Makes it easier to review a long chapter before a test
Works with PDFs, Word files, slides, notes and photos of pages

Example mind map branches for reading comprehension

Main ideaThe claim the whole passage supports · Often stated in the first or last paragraph · Sometimes implied rather than stated

Author's purposeTo inform · To persuade · To entertain · Clues in word choice and tone

Text structureChronological order · Compare and contrast · Cause and effect · Problem and solution

InferenceClues stated in the text · Your prior knowledge · A conclusion the text supports without stating it directly

Supporting detailsFacts, examples and statistics · Direct quotes · Each one linked back to the main idea

Generate the full set

Starts from your own text

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text or a photo of a page, and the map is built from that material rather than generic content.

Editable branches

Rename, move, add or remove branches as your understanding changes, so the map matches how you read the text.

Explore at your own pace

Expand and collapse sections to focus on one idea at a time, then turn the same material into quizzes or flashcards.

How it works

Upload your reading

Add the chapter, article or lecture notes you need to understand.

Review the generated map

See the central idea, main branches and supporting details laid out together.

Edit and study

Adjust the branches to fit your notes, then explore the map or test yourself on it.

DeckOwl turns your file into a mind map with the main idea at the center and supporting points branching outward. You can reorganize the branches, add your own questions, and collapse sections you already understand so the remaining gaps stand out.

The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser. Plus adds unlimited generations and exports such as PDF and DOCX, which helps if you want to share or print your map for class.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I make a mind map while reading a long chapter?

Read one section, write its main idea at the top or center, then add supporting details as sub-branches. Upload the chapter to DeckOwl to start from a generated draft and adjust it as you read.

What should a reading mind map include?

Include the main idea or thesis, the author's purpose, key evidence, unfamiliar terms and any questions you still have. Keep each branch to a few words so the map stays easy to scan.

Can I export my reading mind map?

Export is a paid feature. The free plan lets you study in the browser, while Plus includes PDF and DOCX export along with unlimited generations.

Is there a free way to try it?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and no credit card is needed to start. Students can get 40% off Plus with a school email.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.