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Turn any PDF into a mind map you can study from

Upload a PDF or your notes and get an editable, explorable mind map. Start free, with no credit card needed.

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 mind map beats rereading a PDF

Long PDFs are hard to skim, and a page of linear text hides how ideas connect. mind maps for studying from a PDF pull the main topics out and show how each one branches into details, so you can see the whole chapter at once.

Start from the chapter you have, not a generic template
Collapse branches to test yourself on one section at a time
Export to PDF on Plus so you can print a copy for class
Keep the map beside your notes while you review

Example mind map branches for basic algebra equations

Solving one-step equationsUndo addition or subtraction · Undo multiplication or division · Check by substituting the answer

Solving two-step equationsUndo the constant first · Then undo the coefficient · Check by substitution

Variables on both sidesCollect variable terms on one side · Collect constants on the other · Divide by the coefficient

Equation vs. expressionAn equation has an equals sign · An expression does not · Solve equations, simplify expressions

Inverse operationsAddition undoes subtraction · Multiplication undoes division · Apply the undo steps in reverse order

Generate the full set

Editable branches

Rename, move, or delete nodes so the map matches how your course organizes the material.

Explorable structure

Expand and collapse branches to focus on one topic at a time instead of scrolling a long document.

Pairs with flashcards and quizzes

Turn the same material into spaced repetition flashcards or quizzes with explanations once the map shows the gaps.

How it works

Upload your PDF

Add a PDF, DOCX, PPTX, plain notes, or photos of pages. Text in images is read with text recognition.

Get an explorable map

The AI groups your material into a main topic with branches you can open, rename, and rearrange.

Study and export

Explore the map in your browser on the free plan. Plus adds PDF, DOCX, and other exports.

If you were hoping for a ready-made printable map, DeckOwl does not sell those. It builds one from your own PDF, which usually fits your course better than a generic template.

Plus costs $39/year or $7.99/month and includes PDF, DOCX, Anki, and CSV export. Students get 40% off with a school email, and no credit card is needed to start.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I make a mind map from a chapter on basic algebra equations?

Upload the chapter as a PDF, then check that the main headings for each method appear as top-level branches. Rename any vague branch, such as Section 3, to the method name.

What should a mind map for algebra equations include?

Start with the main methods, such as one-step and two-step equations, and add the inverse operations and checking steps under each. Keep worked examples off the top level so the structure stays easy to scan.

Can I export a mind map as a PDF?

PDF export is included with Plus at $39/year or $7.99/month. The free plan lets you study the map in the browser, but exports are not included.

Do I need a credit card to start?

No. You can start on the free plan with 3 generations per month and no credit card. Students get 40% off with a school email.

Generate free mind maps

Keep exploring the topic

Review the main ideas visually or practice recalling them.