In a world where “one-size-fits-all” apps are everywhere, we believe in something different: using the best tool for the job. Bear, the note-taking app, and our mind-mapping app, each bring unique strengths to the table. With a workflow tailored to you, these two apps can help you accomplish more with greater efficiency. But let’s start at the beginning:

What is Bear?

Bear is a simple yet powerful Markdown notes app. It offers quick tagging, easy editing, and flexible export options—perfect for capturing, writing, and organizing notes while keeping them private with encryption.

Why Use Bear and MindNode Together?

Supreme Usability and Standard Formats: Both apps are native apps and therefore provide the best usability possible. We also both support the widely used Markdown text format, which can be used for import and export. This way, all the formatting is kept from one app to the other.
Enhanced Focus and Clarity: MindNode helps you visualize the big picture on an infinite canvas, while Bear allows you to refine those ideas' details in a clean, text-based format. Together, they enable you to be creative at the macro as well as the micro level, so nothing gets overlooked from concept to completion.
Work Across Devices: Both apps are available on iOS and macOS and offer cross-device syncing, allowing you to access your projects wherever and whenever you are, no matter which device you use.

How to Use Bear and MindNode Together

Whether you are new to Bear, or MindNode, or a beginner for both apps, here are 3 ways to make the most of this unique couple.

Brainstorm in MindNode, Finish in Bear

Kick off your project or idea generation in MindNode, then seamlessly transfer your mind map to Bear using Markdown exports. This allows you to refine and expand on your thoughts in a structured, text-focused space.
When imported, the node hierarchy converts into headings in Bear, and all tasks, links, tags, and notes are preserved. This makes it easy to continue building on your outline until your project is fully developed.
Example: If you’re a student working on a thesis, you can map out your key points in MindNode, then move to Bear for in-depth writing and analysis.

To streamline the process, we’ve created a Mac Shortcut that imports your MindNode Markdown file directly into Bear and opens the note—saving time and clicks. Try it out!

Easily Reference Bear Notes in MindNode

If MindNode is your primary workspace, but you need quick access to notes in Bear, you can use x-callback-url in links to connect the two. The /open note action makes referencing Bear notes effortless, keeping all your key details just a click away.
Example: Planning a trip? Use MindNode to outline your itinerary and link to Bear notes containing important details like travel confirmations, sightseeing info, or packing lists. With MindNode as your roadmap and Bear as your travel guide, you’re set for a smooth adventure.

Turn Bear Notes into Mind Maps for a Visual Overview

While Bear’s Table of Contents helps navigate long notes, sometimes a visual layout offers better clarity. Export your Bear notes in Markdown and import them into MindNode for a structured, big-picture view of your content.
Example: A marketing executive finalizing a campaign draft in Bear can bring it into MindNode to structure a presentation outline, making it easier to organize ideas visually before pitching. With this Mac Shortcut you can convert Bear Notes into mind maps within seconds — have fun.

MindNode + Bear: A Perfect Pair

Using MindNode and Bear together combines the best of both worlds—visual mind mapping for organization and a distraction-free space for deep writing. Try integrating them into your workflow and discover how they complement each other!