When I started creating my first online course, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of tools and platforms out there. From video recording to course hosting, each part of the process seemed to demand a different piece of technology. I didn’t have a huge budget or a team of tech experts to help me, so I had to figure out what worked through trial and error.
Over time, I discovered a set of tools that helped me create high-quality online courses without the stress. These tools made my workflow smoother, improved the production quality of my content, and helped me deliver a better experience to my students. If you’re a course creator looking to streamline your process, here are the essential tools and platforms I rely on—and how they can work for you.
Planning and Outlining: My Blueprint for Success
Before recording a single video, I spend time planning and outlining my course. This helps me stay organized and ensures that each module flows logically.
Trello
Trello is my go-to tool for organizing my course outline. I create boards for each course, with cards for every module and lesson. I add checklists, notes, and deadlines to keep everything on track. The visual layout helps me see the entire course structure at a glance.
Google Docs
For detailed scripting and note-taking, Google Docs is a lifesaver. It allows me to write scripts for my videos, outline key points, and make quick edits. Plus, I can access my documents from anywhere, which is perfect for those moments of inspiration that strike on the go.
Recording Video Content: Simple and Effective Tools
Creating video content doesn’t have to mean expensive equipment and complex software. Here are the tools I use to record high-quality videos on a budget.
Smartphone Camera
Believe it or not, I record most of my videos using my smartphone. Modern smartphones have excellent cameras that can shoot in high-definition, making them more than capable for online course videos. I use a simple tripod to keep the shots steady.
Rode SmartLav+ Microphone
Good audio is essential for keeping students engaged. I use the Rode SmartLav+, a budget-friendly lavalier microphone that plugs directly into my phone. It provides clear, professional-quality audio without the need for complicated setups.
Ring Light
Lighting makes a huge difference in video quality. I use an affordable ring light to ensure my videos are bright and well-lit. The soft, even light eliminates shadows and makes the videos look polished.
Screen Recording: Perfect for Tutorials and Demos
For courses that involve software tutorials, demos, or presentations, screen recording is essential. Here’s what I use:
OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)
OBS Studio is a free, open-source tool that allows me to record my screen and webcam simultaneously. It’s perfect for creating software tutorials or walkthroughs. The interface takes a little getting used to, but it’s incredibly powerful once you get the hang of it.
Loom
Loom is my go-to for quick, no-fuss screen recordings. I love how easy it is to record a video, share a link, and get feedback. It’s great for creating bite-sized lessons or answering student questions with a quick demo.
Editing: Keeping It Simple and Efficient
Editing used to be the most intimidating part of creating courses. But with the right tools, I learned to keep the process simple and effective.
iMovie
For basic editing, iMovie (available for Mac users) is perfect. It allows me to trim clips, add transitions, overlay text, and even add background music. The intuitive interface makes it easy to produce clean, professional-looking videos.
Camtasia
When I need more advanced features, like annotations, animations, or detailed screen recordings, I turn to Camtasia. It’s a paid tool, but the ease of use and powerful features make it worth the investment.
Creating Visuals: Making Lessons Engaging
Adding visuals helps break up the monotony of talking-head videos and keeps students engaged. These tools help me create professional-looking graphics, slides, and visuals.
Canva
Canva is my secret weapon for creating everything from course thumbnails to presentation slides. It’s easy to use, and the templates make it simple to create polished designs even if you’re not a graphic designer.
Google Slides
For lesson presentations, Google Slides is my go-to. I create clean, simple slides that reinforce key points and provide visual aids for students. The collaborative features make it easy to tweak and improve my slides over time.
Hosting and Selling: Getting My Courses to Students
Once my course is ready, the next step is to host and sell it. These platforms make it easy to get my courses online and in front of students.
Teachable
Teachable is my primary course hosting platform. It’s user-friendly, customizable, and provides everything I need to deliver a seamless learning experience. I can create sales pages, accept payments, and track student progress all in one place.
Thinkific
Thinkific is another great option for course hosting. It offers flexibility, powerful features, and a smooth user experience for both creators and students. I appreciate the ability to create quizzes, certificates, and discussion forums within the platform.
Gumroad
For selling smaller, one-off courses or digital products, I use Gumroad. It’s a simple, no-frills platform that makes it easy to sell content directly to my audience.
Engaging With Students: Building a Community
A course is more than just content—it’s about building connections and supporting students. These tools help me stay engaged.
Facebook Groups
I create private Facebook groups for my courses to foster a sense of community. Students can ask questions, share their progress, and support each other. It turns the course into a collaborative experience rather than a solo journey.
Zoom
For live Q&A sessions and webinars, Zoom is invaluable. It allows me to connect with students in real-time, answer their questions, and offer personalized guidance.
Putting It All Together
Creating a high-quality online course doesn’t require the most expensive tools or a professional studio. The key is to use tools that simplify the process, enhance the quality of your content, and help you connect with your students.
These tools have helped me create courses that I’m proud of, without breaking the bank or losing my sanity. Remember, it’s not about having the fanciest equipment—it’s about delivering value and making the learning experience enjoyable and effective.
