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Turn your notes into an editable mind map with AI

DeckOwl does not export mind maps as XML files. You get an editable, explorable map built from your own PDF, DOCX, PPTX or notes, and you can start on the free plan without a card.

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

What a mind map XML file is and how DeckOwl fits

A mind map XML file stores each topic as a node nested inside its parent, which is why the format suits branching notes. DeckOwl works differently: it reads your material and produces an editable mind map you can explore on screen.

Start with the free plan, which includes 3 generations per month and browser study.
Expand, collapse and rename branches after the map is generated.
Plus is $39/year or $7.99/month and includes unlimited generations and PDF or DOCX export.
Students get 40% off with a school email.

Example XML mind map branches

XML elementOpening and closing tags · Can contain text or other elements · Nests to show hierarchy

XML attributeName-value pair inside the start tag · Values must be quoted · Adds detail without creating a new child node

Root elementOnly one per document · Contains every other element · Often the central topic of a map

Well-formed XMLEvery tag is closed · Tags are properly nested · Exactly one root element

XML declarationOptional first line · Sets the version, such as 1.0 · Sets the character encoding, such as UTF-8

Generate the full set

Built from your material

Upload a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain text notes, or a photo of a page. The map is generated from what you gave it.

Editable and explorable

Expand and collapse branches, rename nodes, and reorganize topics so the map matches how you think about the subject.

Study from the same map

Turn the same material into flashcards with spaced repetition or quizzes with explanations when you are ready to test yourself.

How it works

Upload your notes

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, text file, or image of your notes. Text recognition reads photos of pages.

Generate the mind map

DeckOwl organizes the main topic and its branches into a map you can open and explore in the browser.

Edit and export

Adjust branches to fit your course. PDF and DOCX exports are included with the Plus plan.

The exports on the Plus plan are PDF and DOCX, with Anki and CSV for flashcards. Pro adds QTI 2.1 and Moodle XML export, but those cover quizzes rather than mind maps, so they are not a substitute for a map file.

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Frequently asked questions

How is XML structured for a mind map?

Each topic is an element, and child elements nest inside their parent to show branches. Attributes can hold extra details such as a label or an identifier.

Why does an XML document need one root element?

A well-formed XML document has exactly one root element, and every other element sits inside it. In a mind map, the central topic usually plays that role.

Can I export the mind map as a file?

PDF and DOCX exports are included with the Plus plan at $39/year or $7.99/month. The free plan lets you explore the map in the browser without exports.

Do I need a credit card to try it?

No. You can start on the free plan with 3 generations per month and no card required.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.