How to plan your online course

To plan your online course, choose a topic your audience wants to learn, set clear learning goals, and test demand before you build. A course lets you share what you know, grow your audience, and, in supported countries, earn from your expertise. Use the ideas below to shape your course, then build it with the Course link on your Linktree.

See what a course can do for you

• Reach more people: Unlike 1:1 coaching or service work, a course doesn't trade your time for money. You teach once and share it with as many people as you like.
• Build your brand and authority: A well-made course shows you know your space. It builds credibility and can bring new opportunities.
• Grow your audience: A free course is a low-barrier way for new people to get to know you. It can grow your email list or community.
• Build a community: A course that invites interaction creates deeper connections with your audience.
• Stand out: In a crowded niche, a free course gives people a taste of your teaching style and what makes you different.

Choose a topic your audience wants

Pick a topic you care about that matches what your audience needs. To find out what they want to learn:

• Check your DMs and comments: Look for common questions in your messages, comments, and emails.
• Survey your audience: Ask them directly with an Instagram poll or a short survey. Their answers also show you how much demand there is.
• Do keyword research: Use tools like SEMrush, Moz, or Ahrefs to find topics people search for. Look for strong search volume with manageable competition.

Set clear learning goals

Decide what students will be able to do by the end of your course. Clear goals guide what you include, and they show potential students the value of signing up.

Test your idea before you build

Check that there's demand before you create your content. Try a social media poll, a survey, or a beta version of your course, and use the feedback to shape the final version.

Get inspired by course ideas

Not sure where to start? Here are some course ideas:

• How to start an online business
• Photography for beginners
• How to secure your first brand partnership
• How to grow your Instagram following in 30 days
• Freelance writing basics
• Podcasting: from your first episode to your first million listeners