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Turn any PDF or notes into an editable mind map

Upload a lecture PDF, a DOCX, a PPTX, or plain notes, and DeckOwl builds a mind map you can reshape, expand, and explore branch by branch.

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

Mind maps you can edit, not just look at

Many people who want XMind mind maps are really after a map they can keep reshaping as they learn, not a static picture they have to redraw by hand.

Central topic pulled from the main idea of your source
Main branches grouped by theme, ready to rename or reorder
Subtopics that hold definitions, examples, and key terms
Collapsible sections so you can focus on one part at a time

Example XMind mind map structure for study notes

Central topicThe single idea the map grows from · Placed in the middle of the canvas · Best kept to a short noun phrase

Main topicsFirst-level branches off the central topic · One branch per major theme · Ordered by the sequence you will study them

SubtopicsDetails hanging under a main topic · Can nest several levels deep · Used for facts, examples, and key terms

RelationshipsConnector lines linking topics across different branches · Labeled with the type of link · Useful for showing cause and effect

Boundaries and summariesBoundaries group related topics visually · Summary topics wrap a range of subtopics · Both help you collapse a map into a review view

Generate the full set

Editable branches

Rename, move, or add topics after the map is generated so it matches how your course is organized.

Explorable structure

Collapse and expand branches to focus on one section at a time instead of scanning a crowded diagram.

Works from your material

Start from your own PDF, slides, or photos of pages, read with text recognition, not generic templates.

How it works

Upload your source

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or a photo of your notes.

Generate the map

DeckOwl organizes the content into a central topic, main branches, and subtopics.

Edit and explore

Reshape the map, collapse branches, and study each section until the structure makes sense.

DeckOwl starts from your own lecture slides or reading, so the branches reflect your course rather than a generic outline. You can then rename topics, move them between branches, and collapse sections you have already mastered.

Because the map stays editable and explorable in the browser, it works well as a living study guide you return to before each exam.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I decide what belongs in the central topic of a mind map?

Use the single idea your whole source is about, written as a short noun phrase. If you cannot name it in a few words, the material may need two separate maps.

How many main branches should a study mind map have?

Most readers can track about five to nine main branches before the map gets crowded. Split a larger topic into its own map if you need more.

Is there a free plan?

Yes. The free plan includes 3 generations per month and lets you study in the browser. Exports are included in the paid Plus and Pro plans.

Do I need to install XMind to use DeckOwl?

No. DeckOwl runs in your browser, and you can start without a credit card. Students with a school email get 40% off paid plans.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.