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Turn your class notes into a vertical mind map

Upload a PDF, DOCX, slide deck, or photo of a page and get an editable mind map you can explore branch by branch.

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

Why a vertical layout helps with study notes

A vertical mind map works well when your material has clear levels, like a chapter with headings, subheadings, and terms under each. Reading top to bottom follows the same order as most textbooks and lecture slides.

  • Top-level branches match the chapter headings you already have.
  • Sub-points stay short enough to recall without rereading the page.
  • Editing lets you merge overlapping branches or split crowded ones.
  • Once you have the map, you can turn the same material into quizzes or flashcards.
Example cell biology mind map branches
Cell membranePhospholipid bilayer · Selective permeability · Embedded proteins
MitochondriaSite of cellular respiration · Produces most of the cell's ATP · Contains its own DNA
NucleusHolds genetic material · Controls gene expression · Surrounded by a nuclear envelope
Endoplasmic reticulumRough ER helps make proteins · Smooth ER synthesizes lipids · Transports molecules through the cell
Golgi apparatusModifies and sorts proteins · Packages molecules into vesicles · Ships products to their destinations
Generate the full set

Starts from your material

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

Editable and explorable

Rename, move, or expand branches as you study. The map stays tied to the chapter it came from.

Study from the same source

Turn the same notes into flashcards with spaced repetition or a quiz with explanations when you are ready to test yourself.

How it works

Upload your notes

Drop in a file or paste text. No credit card is needed to start.

Generate the mind map

DeckOwl builds a branching map from the headings and key terms in your material.

Edit and explore

Adjust branches, then walk through each one to check what you remember.

Start with the main topics as first-level branches, then add key terms and short supporting facts underneath. Keeping each branch to a handful of items makes the map easier to review before an exam.

Explore related topics

Frequently asked questions

How do I organize a mind map for a long chapter?

Start with the chapter's main headings as first-level branches, then add key terms and short supporting facts under each. Keep each branch to three to five items so it stays readable.

How many branches should a study mind map have?

Most chapters work well with four to seven main branches. If you have many more, group related topics under a shared parent branch.

Can I edit the mind map after it is generated?

Yes, the map is editable and explorable in the browser. Exporting to PDF or DOCX is a paid feature on the Plus plan.

Is the free plan enough to try it?

The free plan includes 3 generations per month and studying in the browser. Plus costs $39/year or $7.99/month, and 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.