How to Make a Concept Map Online
See how a concept map links ideas, then build your own from a PDF, notes or a topic with AI.
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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 Own Material
Turn the material you already have into a linked, editable concept map.
Start from your files
Upload a PDF, Word or PowerPoint file, text, Markdown or an image to generate the map.
Linked ideas and labels
Concepts connect through labeled branches, so you see how each idea relates to the next.
Study beyond the map
Turn the map into a quiz, use the same notes for flashcards, then export as PNG or PDF.
Make a Concept Map in Three Steps
From raw notes to a linked online map you can study and share.
- 1
Add your material
Upload a file or type the topic you want to map out.
- 2
AI builds the map
The AI finds key concepts and links them into expandable branches.
- 3
Study and refine
Edit labels, expand nodes, then quiz yourself or export the finished map.
Online Concept Map Basics and Method
A concept map is a diagram showing how ideas relate. Each concept sits in a node, and labeled lines link concepts into propositions, such as "causes" or "is part of". To make one online, list the core concepts, rank them from general to specific, then connect them with short linking phrases. Online tools speed this up by building the first draft for you.
- Core concepts: the main ideas placed in nodes at the top level
- Linking phrases: short labels that explain how two concepts connect
- Hierarchy: general concepts sit above specific examples and details
- Cross-links: connections between branches that show deeper relationships
Use the finished map to review before an exam, check your understanding, or plan an essay. CogniGuide can generate a personalized concept map from your own notes in minutes.
Common Questions About Online Concept Maps
Answers on making and using concept maps online.
What is the difference between a concept map and a mind map?
A concept map links ideas with labeled connections and can form networks, while a mind map radiates outward from one central idea in a tree-like layout. Concept maps suit showing relationships, and mind maps suit brainstorming.
What should a good concept map include?
A good concept map has clear core concepts, short linking phrases on each connection, and a logical hierarchy from general to specific. Keep the labels concise so the relationships are easy to read.
Which files can I use to make a concept map?
You can upload PDF, Word (DOCX), PowerPoint (PPTX), text or Markdown files, or images. You can also type a topic directly.
Can I turn my concept map into a quiz for free?
CogniGuide has a free plan with 5 creations a week and no payment needed. Maps can be turned into a quiz to test yourself.