Map node types
Map nodes represent concepts, claims, methods, evidence, and structures that Atlas identifies in source material. Edges describe how those nodes relate.
Common node types
| Node type | Represents | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Concept | An important idea, term, entity, or theme. | "retrieval-augmented generation" |
| Claim | An assertion made or implied by the source. | "visual maps improve recall" |
| Evidence | Support for a claim. | experiment result, quote, statistic |
| Method | A process, technique, or study design. | survey, benchmark, intervention |
| Finding | A reported result or conclusion. | "Group A outperformed Group B" |
| Limitation | A caveat, boundary, or weakness. | small sample size, missing controls |
| Question | An unresolved issue or research direction. | "Does this generalize to novices?" |
| Section | A structural part of a document. | introduction, methods, discussion |
The exact labels can vary by source and generation model. Use each type to interpret the map while allowing for labels that fit the current source better.
Edge types
Edges describe relationships such as:
- supports
- contradicts
- causes
- depends on
- contains
- compares with
- leads to
- is evidence for.
Read edge labels carefully. A weak or vague edge is a sign to inspect the source passage or regenerate a narrower map.
Nested nodes
A nested node contains a more detailed structure beneath a high-level concept. Use nested nodes when the top-level map is too dense or when a concept contains multiple subclaims.
Verification
Map nodes are summaries. Before quoting, citing, or publishing a claim from the map, open the source and confirm the underlying evidence.
Reading strategy
- Start with high-degree nodes, which often represent central ideas.
- Follow edges to understand relationships.
- Open nested nodes only when the top level is clear.
- Check limitations and contradictions before drawing conclusions.