5 Tips for Writing Course Materials That Convert!
Creating an online course is more than just sharing information—it’s about guiding your learners toward their goals and motivating them to take action. For your course to be successful, you need course materials that engage students and inspire them to continue learning, all while providing value that translates into positive outcomes. If you’re looking to create course materials that not only educate but also convert learners into loyal followers or customers, here are five essential tips to keep in mind:
1. Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features
Why it works: When writing course materials, it’s easy to focus on the features of your course (the lessons, modules, or tools). However, what converts learners is understanding how those features will benefit them. They want to know how your course will solve their problems or improve their skills.
How to apply it: For every feature you mention, clearly explain the benefits. For example, instead of saying “This course includes 10 video lessons,” say “You’ll gain practical, step-by-step guidance in 10 bite-sized video lessons that you can easily follow at your own pace.” Highlight how the course will help them achieve their goals or change their life in a meaningful way.
Tip: Use benefit-driven language in your course descriptions, lesson titles, and even throughout the learning content to consistently remind students of the value they’re gaining.
2. Keep It Simple and Clear
Why it works: Clarity is key when writing course materials that convert. Confusing or overly complex language can frustrate learners and make them lose interest. If students don’t understand the content or find it hard to follow, they may drop off or disengage.
How to apply it: Use simple, straightforward language that’s easy to read and digest. Break down complex ideas into smaller, easily understandable chunks. Avoid jargon unless absolutely necessary, and if you must use it, provide clear definitions. Make sure your instructions are step-by-step and actionable.
Tip: Use short sentences and bullet points to make your materials more scannable. This helps learners quickly grasp key points without getting overwhelmed.
3. Incorporate Actionable Content
Why it works: To convert students from passive learners into active participants, your course should include actionable steps they can take. This not only helps reinforce learning but also builds their confidence and keeps them motivated to complete the course.
How to apply it: After introducing new concepts or lessons, provide assignments, exercises, or challenges that allow learners to apply what they’ve learned. Create tasks that are relevant to their real-life goals or work scenarios, making the content more tangible and valuable.
Tip: Incorporate prompts like “Try it yourself” or “Apply this to your current project” to encourage hands-on learning.
4. Use Persuasive Language and Social Proof
Why it works: Persuasive language and social proof help build trust and credibility. When learners see that others have successfully benefited from your course, they’re more likely to be convinced that your course will deliver the promised value.
How to apply it: Use testimonials, case studies, or success stories from past students to demonstrate the value of your course. Throughout your materials, use persuasive language that instills confidence. Phrases like “You’ll discover how to…” or “By the end of this course, you’ll be able to…” make the course feel result-oriented.
Tip: Include testimonials or positive feedback not only in your course landing page but also within the course itself to reinforce its effectiveness as students progress through the content.
5. Create a Sense of Progress and Achievement
Why it works: Learners are more likely to stay engaged and complete a course when they feel a sense of progress. When you create materials that make learners feel like they are making steady progress, they’re more motivated to continue and eventually convert into loyal followers or customers.
How to apply it: Break your course down into short, manageable sections or milestones. Include visual progress indicators, quizzes, or badges that celebrate their achievements along the way. Gamify the learning experience by providing rewards or certificates upon completing key sections.
Tip: Regularly acknowledge your learners’ efforts with encouraging language, such as “Great job, you’re halfway through!” or “You’ve completed a key milestone—keep going!”
Conclusion
Writing course materials that convert requires more than just delivering information. By focusing on the benefits, keeping the content clear, making it actionable, using persuasive language, and creating a sense of achievement, you can craft a course that engages, motivates, and converts learners into satisfied, loyal students.
Remember, the key to success is putting yourself in your learners’ shoes and creating materials that not only teach but also inspire them to take action and achieve their goals.