Importing Mind Maps

Already have mind maps in another tool? Notemap can import them so you can pick up right where you left off. Go to File > Import or press Cmd+Shift+I to open the import dialog.

Supported Import Formats

Xmind

Import .xmind files created with Xmind. Your map structure, node text, and hierarchy are brought into Notemap as a new mind map.

FreeMind

Import .mm files from FreeMind. The tree structure and node content are preserved during the conversion.

OPML

Import .opml outline files from any outliner or mind mapping tool that supports OPML export. This is the most universal format for moving maps between applications.

Markdown

Import .md files where heading levels determine the node hierarchy. An H1 becomes the root node, H2s become its children, H3s become grandchildren, and so on. Body text under each heading is included as node content.

Plain Text

Import indented text files where indentation determines the hierarchy. Each line becomes a node, and deeper indentation creates deeper levels in the tree.

How to Import

There are two ways to import a file:

  1. From the menu: Go to File > Import and select the file you want to bring in.
  2. Drag and drop: Drag a supported file directly onto the Notemap window.

The imported content becomes a new mind map in your workspace. From there, you can edit, reorganize, add colors and shapes, and work with it like any other Notemap document.

Video: Importing an Xmind file and an OPML file into Notemap

What to Expect

  • Node text and hierarchy are preserved across all import formats.
  • Structure and nesting are faithfully reproduced — your branches and sub-branches will appear in the correct positions.
  • Custom styling from the source tool (such as specific fonts, icon sets, or proprietary formatting) may not carry over. After importing, you can apply Notemap’s own colors, shapes, and formatting to style the map however you like.
Note

If you're migrating from another mind mapping tool, export your maps in OPML format for the best compatibility. OPML is a widely supported standard and preserves tree structure reliably across applications.