Heptabase

Visual note-taking on a whiteboard canvas for deep research and learning

From $0/mo

About Heptabase

Heptabase is built on the thesis that understanding — not just capturing — information requires spatial, visual organization. Notes are written as atomic cards using a rich markdown editor, then arranged freely on infinite whiteboards called Maps. Unlike Miro or FigJam, Heptabase's whiteboards are tightly integrated with a structured note database, meaning cards exist independently and can appear across multiple maps without duplication. The Journal feature provides a daily note stream for capture, while the Tag system and Section sidebar organize cards into a library. PDF annotation imports research papers directly into the system. Heptabase targets researchers, students, and writers doing deep knowledge work — not teams looking for a project tracker.

Key Features

Infinite whiteboard canvas for spatial note organization

Atomic card-based notes with rich markdown editor

Cards can exist across multiple whiteboards simultaneously

PDF and highlight annotation built in

Daily Journal for quick capture

Offline-first desktop app (Mac, Windows, Linux)

Tag-based library for structured retrieval

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Spatial canvas genuinely helps synthesize complex research — not just a gimmick
• PDF annotation integrated means fewer tools for academic workflows
• Offline-first desktop app works without internet
• Cards-across-maps design avoids the duplication problem of other visual tools