How do I get a mind map out of an AI reply?

Short answer

Name the mindmap syntax in your prompt. Left to itself, the model usually replies with a markdown bullet list, which isn't a mind map. With real mindmap code, paste it into the editor or the mind map page and export as usual.

A prompt that works

Draw a mind map in Mermaid using the mindmap syntax. Topic: ××. Use exactly one root, put root((Topic)) on the second line, indent each level by two more spaces, do not use markdown - bullets, and give the complete code block.

Three rules the syntax actually enforces

1. One root only. Indentation that accidentally creates a second root is the one thing mindmap reliably errors on, and the message names the node.
2. Levels come from indentation — two spaces per level, no -.
3. No straight quotes inside node text.

Try it

mindmap
  root((Product refresh))
    Why now
      User feedback
      Competitor moves
    Plan
      Information architecture
      Visual system
    Timeline
      Phase one, two weeks
      Phase two, one month

Exporting

Mind maps run wide, so use 3x for PNG or export SVG. For a deck, "Export PowerPoint" lays it across a slide.

Related

• Mind maps from an AI reply
• mindmap syntax notes