A concept map (or mind map) is a tool that is used to help memory reconstruct a mental itinerary, in order to better explain a subject.
The use of concept maps is common both in the private sphere, for example as a support for self-learning, as a teaching aid, or to improve the exposure of a public presentation, as we have already explored. in the guide on how to make a concept map. .
Concept maps are usually prepared with pen and paper, or on the PC using special programs. In addition to these modalities, there is a third, namely create concept maps online by using the services made available on certain websites.
Indeed, there are many sites that allow you to create mind maps online, with very different results and without having to install programs on your computer.
Below I have selected the best sites for making concept maps online, the most useful and popular among network users, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs to create your own concept map.
Cloth
The first site I offer is called Cloth.
With the exception of some advanced functions available only against payment, it is completely free and in Italian. Saving works requires registration, while simple access to the site is free.
The functions of this portal extend far beyond concept maps, encompassing virtually the entire industry of presentations, social media, graphics and video editing, so you just have to explore the site to get a better idea. thorough of what it has to offer.
To access the section dedicated to concept maps you must click on the item “Other” in the general menu then navigate to the section “Mental map”, as the following picture shows:
Once the operation is complete you will have access to the internal concept map editor, very complete, which offers dozens of models to get started to set up your concept map.
In general the operation of the site is very intuitive and easy to use, and of very professional resultsas long as you strictly adhere to the predefined patterns.
MindMeister
MindMeister is a site that allows you to create more traditional maps, through the use of labels and links. It requires registration to access it and offers both paid plans and free access.
It proves to be a great compromise between paper and digital, as it lets you configure each job from scratch (highly customizable templates are also available).
The end result depends a lot on the type of use you want to make of the card, whether it is strictly personal or whether it is intended to be shared with an audience (presentations, lectures, etc.).
Google drawings
If what you need is just the draw a concept map, Google drawings is made for you: you can create the graphical representation of the map, but it does not have models or advanced functions, it is very basic and completely free.
The main function of Google Drawings is to let you draw figures on a grid and hence it can be used to draw simple concept maps.
draw.io
draw.io is a web application that allows you to create a concept map from scratch using lines, shapes, arrows and diagrams.
Its very basic appearance should not be misleading: it is a very powerful tool, which however lacks complexity and is not fully accessible to the average user. There is no concept map template available and therefore has no predefined structures to work from; on the other hand, even if it is entirely in English, it is completely free.
On startup, the user is prompted to select a cloud service destination to save the work to, an operation that can also be postponed to a later date, when you can also choose the save format, including PNG, SVG, HTML and XML.
Overall a great deal for a totally free tool.
Creatively
Through Creatively it is possible to easily create effective concept maps from scratch, using very nice tools; are equally many examples of pre-packaged cards are available, ready to be modified and adapted for your purposes.
The product is distributed as free access, upon registration, with many limitations, then with packages with increasing prices, starting from the base price of € 4.30 per month.
WiseMapping
WiseMapping is a somewhat convoluted but extremely powerful service that allows you to create the branched concept map more complex than you might imagine, starting from scratch and eventually integrating it into your website.
Most operations it’s done directly on the map by drag and drop, so that its operation is extremely intuitive; however, there is an English video guide for beginners and a complex system of keyboard shortcuts.
The site offers a free trial and is partially translated into Italian.
Lucidchart
Lucidchart is a site, entirely in English, which offers countless tools for creating very complex concept maps, either starting from scratch or using predefined templates.
Free registration is required to access the editor, but to have all the features you need to purchase paid packages, which currently start at a base cost of $ 6.95 per month.
