Dichotomous key examples.
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What a dichotomous key is.
A dichotomous key identifies an item through a series of paired choices. At every step, the user selects one of two contrasting traits and follows that branch until reaching a name.
A good key uses observable, consistent traits and makes each pair distinguish the items still under consideration. Test every item from the first question to make sure each path ends at the right identification.
- Standard
- Howard-Raiffa / CART-sklearn / taxonomy
- Engine
- schematex-decisiontree
- Editable
- Double-click text, drag nodes
- Export
- SVG · PNG · PDF
Who uses dichotomous keys.
Species and specimen identification activities based on traits students can observe.
Short identification keys for a limited local set of plants or insects.
Rock-sample sorting that combines texture observations with simple tests.
How to make a dichotomous key in three steps.
Describe it
One paragraph is enough to start.
See the drawing
Drawn by the right engine.
Say what changes
Every edit keeps a version.
Common questions
What is a dichotomous key?
An identification tool that guides a user through a sequence of two-choice questions.
Why are there two choices at each step?
Each pair separates the remaining candidates into two groups, which narrows the identification.
What makes a good dichotomous-key question?
It uses a clear, observable trait and offers alternatives that do not overlap.
Can a dichotomous key identify nonliving things?
Yes. The same paired-choice method can classify rocks, materials, objects, or documents.
Other drawings for the same work.
Make a dichotomous key now.
Free account, no card. Describe the items and the traits that separate them.
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