CogniGuide

How to Put a Concept Map in Microsoft Word

See the steps to insert a finished map into Word as a PNG or PDF, then build your own map from 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

Get your map into Word fast

Build the map from your own material, then export it ready to paste into your document.

Built from your own material

Upload a PDF, Word, PowerPoint or text file, or just type a topic, and the AI builds the map.

Clear branches for your document

Each main idea sits on its own branch, so the map reads well as a figure in a report or essay.

Export and share

Export the finished map as a PNG or PDF to insert into Word, or share a link with classmates.

Three steps to a Word-ready map

Create the map first, then export it and place it in your document.

1
Add your notes or topic
Upload your file or type the subject you want the concept map to cover.
2
AI builds the map
The AI turns the content into a map with linked nodes and expandable branches.
3
Export and insert
Export as PNG or PDF, then use Insert, Pictures in Word to place it in your document.

Inserting a concept map into a Word document

A concept map in Microsoft Word is usually added as a picture. You build the map in a dedicated tool, export it as a PNG or PDF, then insert it so it sits inside your text. The map shows how ideas connect through labeled links, which makes it a clear figure for reports, essays and study guides.

Export format: PNG works for most documents; PDF keeps sharp lines when scaled.
Insert step: Use Insert, Pictures, This Device in Word.
Sizing: Drag a corner handle to resize, keeping the aspect ratio.
Wrapping: Set text wrapping to In Line With Text for simple layout.
Captions: Add a figure caption with References, Insert Caption.

Once the map is in your document, revise by returning to the source and re-exporting. Create your own personalized concept map with CogniGuide from your notes.

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Common questions about concept maps in Word

Answers on inserting and building your map.

Can I edit a concept map directly inside Word?

Word does not have a built-in concept map tool. Build and edit the map in a dedicated app, then export it as an image or PDF and insert it into the document.

Which file type should I export?

Use PNG for most documents. Use PDF if you need the lines to stay sharp when you enlarge the figure.

Can I make the map from my own notes?

Yes. Upload a PDF, Word or PowerPoint file, a text or Markdown file, or an image, and CogniGuide builds the map from it.

Is it free to try?

There is a free plan with 5 creations a week and no payment needed. Paid plans raise the limits.