Concept Maps: What They Are and How to Build Them
See an example concept map showing nodes, linking phrases and hierarchy. Then build your own from your notes, a PDF or slides.
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CogniGuide at a glance
- What you get
- Interactive mind maps of the main ideas and how they connect. Free: overview maps (detailed maps on your first 3 creations). Plus: detailed maps with supporting concepts.
- Exports
- Your first PDF or PNG export is free; Plus exports anytime.
- Price
- Free plan: 5 creations a week, up to 3 a day. Plus: $9.99/month or $99.90/year (USD; local prices at checkout).
- Sign-up
- A free account is required before you create anything (Google or email). No credit card.
- What you can upload
- PDF, Word (.docx), PowerPoint (.pptx), plain text or Markdown, and images (PNG, JPG, WebP, GIF), or type a topic. One file per creation on the free plan; several at once on Plus.
How it compares: vs Knowt · vs Quizlet · vs NotebookLM · vs Mapify
Build Concept Maps From Your Material
Turn readings and lecture slides into a structured map you can edit, expand and test yourself with.
Built from your own files
Upload a PDF, Word, PowerPoint, text or image file, or just type a topic, and get a concept map.
Clear hierarchy of ideas
Main concepts sit at the top, with linked sub-concepts branching out beneath them.
Study next steps
Expand any node, turn the map into a quiz, make flashcards from the same notes, or export it.
How to Make a Concept Map With AI
Three steps from raw notes to a map you can study from.
- 1
Add your material
Upload your notes or slides, or type the topic you are studying.
- 2
AI builds the map
The AI finds key concepts and links them into a branching concept map.
- 3
Study and test
Expand nodes, edit labels, then turn the map into a quiz to check recall.
Concept Map Method and Structure
A concept map is a diagram that shows how ideas relate to each other. Each concept sits in a node, and labeled arrows state the relationship, such as causes or is part of. Maps usually run from broad, general concepts at the top to specific examples at the bottom. Students use them to see the big picture of a subject and to spot links between topics.
- Concept nodes: the ideas or terms, kept short
- Linking phrases: labels on arrows explaining each relationship
- Hierarchy: general concepts at the top, specific details below
- Cross-links: connections between branches that show deeper understanding
- Propositions: two nodes and a linking phrase form a testable statement
Use a concept map to revise, plan an essay or check your understanding before an exam. CogniGuide can build a personalized concept map from your own notes, so you start from your course material.
Concept Map Questions Answered
Common questions about concept maps and making them with CogniGuide.
What is the difference between a concept map and a mind map?
A concept map links ideas with labeled arrows and can form a network with cross-links. A mind map radiates from one central topic in a tree-like shape, with no required labels on the branches.
Who developed concept mapping?
Joseph Novak and his colleagues at Cornell University developed concept mapping in the 1970s as a way to track how students' understanding of science changed over time.
Which files can I use to make a concept map with CogniGuide?
You can upload PDF, Word (DOCX), PowerPoint (PPTX), text or Markdown files, or images, or simply type a topic.
Can I turn a concept map into a quiz?
Yes. CogniGuide can turn a map into a quiz to test yourself, and the same notes can also become flashcards.