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CogniGuide

Mind Map Mac: Build Maps From Your Own Files

See an example mind map and learn how to structure one. Then let AI build a map from your notes, PDF, Word file or slides.

No credit card required

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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

What You Can Do on a Mac Mind Map

CogniGuide runs in your browser, so you can make and study maps on any Mac without installing software.

Build from your own files

Upload a PDF, Word, PowerPoint, text or image file, and the AI turns it into a mind map.

Expand and edit branches

Open any node with AI for more detail, edit the text, and rearrange branches as you study.

Quiz and export

Turn the map into a quiz to test yourself, then export as PNG or PDF or share a link.

How to Make a Mind Map on Mac

Three steps from your notes to a usable map, all in your browser.

  1. 1

    Add your material

    Upload a file from your Mac or type a topic into the box to start.

  2. 2

    AI builds the map

    The AI organizes your content into a branching map with main topics and subtopics.

  3. 3

    Study, expand, export

    Expand weak branches, quiz yourself, then export the map as PNG or PDF.

Mind Mapping on Mac: How It Works

A mind map is a diagram that starts with one central idea and branches out into related topics. On a Mac, you can draw one by hand in a notes app or use a web-based tool. A mind map works well for studying because it shows how ideas connect. Start with the main topic in the center, then add the major themes, and finally the details under each theme.

  • Central topic: the single idea the whole map is about
  • Main branches: the major themes that support the central idea
  • Subtopics: details, examples and definitions under each branch
  • Connections: links that show how branches relate to one another

Use the finished map to review before an exam, plan a project or outline an essay. To build one from your own notes with CogniGuide, upload your file and let the AI create the first draft.

Explore related topics

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Mind Map Mac Questions

Answers about making mind maps on a Mac and using CogniGuide.

Can I make a mind map on a Mac without installing software?

Yes. CogniGuide runs in your web browser on a Mac, so you can create and edit maps without downloading an app.

What is the best way to start a mind map?

Write the main topic in the center, then add three to five main branches. Add details under each branch only after the main structure is clear.

Which files can I use to make a mind map?

You can upload PDF, Word (DOCX), PowerPoint (PPTX), text, Markdown or image files, or simply type a topic.

Is there a free plan, and can I turn my map into a quiz?

There is a free plan with 5 creations a week and no payment needed. Maps can also be turned into a quiz to test yourself.