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 the type as a reading aid, not as a rigid taxonomy.
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.