Concept Mapping Tools

Below are a list of online tools you could use to help you develop efficient and thoughtful concept maps! (Note: not all applications provided are free and/or accessible, please double check to see if the tool is the best fit for you!)

• Bubbl.us: a simple online brainstorming application that you can use to create concept maps.
• Cmap Tools: a free concept mapping software from the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC) that has public servers to save your work and can make it shareable with others.
  • Help files: support for the software with step-by-step instructions and screenshots of the program
  • Help Videos: series of YouTube videos that show users how to use the program and its features
  • Other products you may be interested in: Cmap Tools for iPad, Cmap Cloud and Cmap Tools in the Cloud
• Coggle: a mindmapping tool that allows for creating and sharing flexible diagrams which illustrate connections between concepts, ideas, and terms.
• Exobrain: a cloud-based brainstorming tool that lets you collaborate on creating diagrams, visual maps, and notes.
• FreeMind: a free mind-mapping software (Java) that can support brainstorming and concept maps alongside other uses such as project tracking and note-taking.
  • Examples of concept maps developed in FreeMind
• LucidChart: a web-based diagram application that supports creating concept maps alongside flowcharts, diagrams, charts, floor plans, and wireframes.
• Mindmeister: an online mind-mapping tool which users can organize thoughts, ideas, and information with flexibility of connecting concepts together. Free version allows up to 3 mind maps.
  • App version is also available for Apple and Android devices
• Mural: a visual collaborative platform to help
  • See McGill’s Learning with Mural Guide for helpful tips using this platform
• NVivo: software for qualitative analysis that has features for concept maps. Zotero libraries can also be uploaded on the platform using ris files.
  • NVivo Concept Map specific information
• Padlet: a free (or a subscription option) organizational tool to diagram ideas that focuses on collaboration-features between users.
• Popplet: a tool to help users create mind or concept maps and organize ideas visually, on the main page users can create one free Popplet or subscribe to access more features.
  • Popplet Lite version in app store is freely available for more uses
• Visual Understanding Environment (VUE): an open-source (Java) concept and content mapping application from Tufts University.
• WiseMapping: a free online mind-mapping tool that can support collaborative planning and brainstorming projects.

…or you can always use good old pen and paper!

Resources

• Western University eLearning Toolkit
• Kwantlen Polytechnic University Pressbook “Academic Writing Basics” (Chapter 8): Concept Mapping (Megan Robertson)
• University of Guelph Library Research Guide: Creating a Concept Map